The Patriots made a splash move in free agency by adding former Buccaneers and Lions star cornerback Carlton Davis to pair with Christian Gonzalez. Along with the addition, the team saw positive contributions from their young crop of players in the latter half of the season, which now includes a pair of defensive backs selected in the draft, Craig Woodson and Kobee Minor.
Despite the trio of additions made in the offseason, Pro Football and Sports Network suggests the team add a veteran and 2019 Pro Bowler to the mix in Shaquill Griffin.
The Patriots signing CB Shaquill Griffin could be a sensible depth addition
As previously mentioned, Gonzalez and Davis will man the outside of the defense, and Marcus Jones will be responsible for the slot. Following the starters, however, there are some major unknowns. Alex Austin has shown solid play in spurts but has also dealt with injuries. While the likes of Zay Bolden and Miles Battle have shown flashes, they haven't been consistent enough to rely on as a full-time defender.
Griffin, soon to be 30, could offer veteran stability as a CB4. Opposing quarterbacks went 32/54 on the season when targeting Griffin, and he posted a 71.3 PFF grade against the run for Minnesota's fourth-ranked defense. He played almost exclusively on the outside, with 87% of his snaps coming as the wide man.
Further, Davis has yet to play a full season in his career, and Gonzalez has played 20 games across two seasons. In the event of an injury, Griffin could offer a solid spot starter with more experience than Jones or Austin outside.
A contract for Griffin is probably close to the veteran's minimum at this point, maybe a bit more. The Patriots also have $60 million in cap space, so that finances wouldn't be an issue.
While it may not wow like the additions of Milton Williams and Davis did during the peaks of free agency, Griffin would offer sound depth and experience to an already solid corner room.