New Patriots: Getting to know rookie Craig Woodson better on and off the field

Published: Friday, October 10, 2025 at 9:00 am

New Patriots Rookie Craig Woodson Making an Impact

New England Patriots rookie safety Craig Woodson is quickly proving his worth in the NFL. Drafted in the fourth round from the University of California, Woodson has been a key player on the Patriots' defense, leading all defenders with 301 total snaps. He has played a significant 97.4% of defensive snaps, showcasing his durability and adaptability.

Woodson's performance on the field has been notable. He is tied for second on the team with four tackles for loss and ranks third with 27 tackles. Head coach Mike Vrabel has praised Woodson's communication skills and ability to handle a high volume of plays. While acknowledging that Woodson isn't perfect, Vrabel highlighted his health and ability to stay composed under pressure.

Woodson's transition to the NFL has been aided by his existing relationship with teammate Jaylinn Hawkins, who played at California four years prior.

Off the field, Woodson shared some insights into his background and interests. He began his football journey as a center at age nine, later transitioning to running back. His favorite football player growing up was LeVeon Bell. Woodson's top high school football memory involves a last-minute victory against Cedar Hill, and his favorite college memory is winning a game against Stanford. He values the relationships he built at California. If he weren't a football player, Woodson mentioned he might pursue a career in media or photography, a hobby he's been involved in since high school. He enjoys the scenery and food in Boston.

BNN's Perspective: Woodson's rapid integration into the Patriots' defense is encouraging. His high snap count and positive feedback from the coaching staff suggest he could become a valuable asset for the team. It's also refreshing to see a young player with interests beyond the sport, which can contribute to a well-rounded personality and potentially a more adaptable player.

Keywords: Craig Woodson, New England Patriots, rookie, safety, defense, tackles, snaps, Mike Vrabel, Jaylinn Hawkins, California, football, photography, LeVeon Bell, NFL.

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