Patriots Secure Elite Lockdown Corner with Game-Changing Contract: What It Means for the Team

The New England Patriots are focusing on their defense for the 2025 season, and they just made a significant improvement to their secondary.

According to NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero, the Patriots have signed cornerback Carlton Davis. This deal is said to be for three years and worth $60 million, with $34 million guaranteed.

Davis is a seasoned player, having been drafted in the second round by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2018. Last season, he played for the Detroit Lions, featuring in 13 games where he recorded two interceptions and defended 11 passes. He also made 42 solo tackles, including two for losses, and recovered two fumbles.

His performance earned him a coverage grade of 72.1 from Pro Football Focus, ranking him 38th out of 223 cornerbacks in the league. He faced 72 targets, allowing 43 receptions for 583 yards and three touchdowns, contributing to a passer rating of 87.9 against him, which is among his best career figures. Unfortunately, he did suffer a season-ending jaw injury later in the year.

This addition will further bolster the Patriots’ defense. Davis joins a defensive lineup that already features Christian Gonzalez as the top cornerback. His skills should integrate well with the team’s defensive strategy.

Interestingly, while the Patriots are involved in discussions with various offensive players, they have successfully secured key defensive talents. Recently, they also reached agreements with linebacker Robert Spillane and former Titans standout Harold Landry.