The New England Patriots’ 2025 NFL Draft class has been widely praised for its strategic selections, but one pick in particular left fans and analysts alike scratching their heads: the fourth-round selection of safety Craig Woodson. This mysterious choice by the Patriots, which seemed to defy conventional draft logic, has shocked fans up to this point. However, early indications suggest that Woodson may prove to be a hidden gem for the team.
A Puzzling Selection
When the Patriots called Woodson’s name in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, the reaction was one of surprise and confusion. Most draft analysts had projected the California Golden Bears product as a late-round pick or even an undrafted free agent. Selecting him well ahead of his projected slot raised eyebrows, especially considering New England’s already solid safety depth with established stars Kyle Dugger and Jabrill Peppers anchoring the position.
The Patriots’ decision to prioritize Woodson over other positional needs seemed perplexing at the time. Why invest a relatively high draft pick in a player at a position where the team appeared set? For a franchise known for its calculated and often brilliant draft moves under head coach Bill Belichick and now Jerod Mayo, this choice felt like a gamble that left fans questioning the front office’s strategy.
Early Impressions: A Diamond in the Rough?
Despite the initial skepticism, Craig Woodson has quickly begun to turn heads during rookie camp at Gillette Stadium. According to Patriots insider Phil Perry, the team has been thoroughly impressed with the 24-year-old’s performance thus far. Speaking on the Patriots Talk Podcast, Perry highlighted Woodson’s standout qualities: “(The Patriots) love his football IQ, they love his movement skills.”
Woodson’s early showings suggest that the Patriots saw something special in him—something that perhaps wasn’t fully captured by draft analysts’ projections. His ability to read plays and his fluid athleticism have evidently caught the coaching staff’s attention, raising the possibility that he could carve out a role sooner than expected.
A Potential Role in a Modern Defense
While the Patriots already boast a formidable safety duo in Dugger and Peppers, modern NFL defenses often utilize three-safety packages to counter the league’s increasingly pass-heavy offenses. This trend could open the door for Woodson to see meaningful playing time as a rookie. His versatility, particularly his ability to defend the run, could make him a valuable asset in specific defensive schemes.
During his six-year collegiate career at California (2019–2024), Woodson showcased a well-rounded skill set. In his final season with the Golden Bears, he recorded 70 tackles, two interceptions, and nine passes defended. Over his entire college tenure, he amassed five interceptions and 18 passes defended, demonstrating his ability to make plays in coverage while also contributing against the run.
At 24 years old, Woodson brings a level of maturity and experience that could help him adapt quickly to the NFL level. While the Patriots are likely to ease him into action given his rookie status, his early performances suggest he could compete for snaps in sub-packages or special teams roles.
Looking Ahead
The Patriots’ decision to draft Craig Woodson may have initially baffled fans, but the team’s track record of identifying undervalued talent cannot be overlooked. If Woodson continues to impress during training camp and the preseason, he could justify the Patriots’ faith in him and silence the doubters.
For now, all eyes will be on Woodson as he navigates his rookie season. Can he translate his promising early showings into a meaningful role on the field? Will he become a fixture in New England’s secondary for years to come? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the Patriots’ mysterious draft pick is already proving to be far more than meets the eye.