No Patriots defender played more snaps than Craig Woodson during the 2025 season. That would have been a rare prediction before to the year for the fourth-round pick, but Woodson went on to lay a strong foundation during an impressive rookie campaign.
That season ended with the arrow pointed up — as well as Woodson’s confidence — as he recorded his first career interception in a Divisional Round win over the Texans and was one of the team’s lone bright spots during Super Bowl LX.
“It gave me a lot
of confidence knowing that I can play at a high level with the best guys on the field,” Woodson said. “And I just want to keep building on that. I want to keep getting better every day I come into the building. What I did last year was last year. This is this year and I’ve got to prove myself again.”
The confidence levels were not always sky high for Woodson throughout his rookie season. But the plays he made and the experience he received in Year 1 should help limit those swings moving forward while he continues “adding tools to my bag” in order to improve.
“I would say the moments I did not have confidence last year, were the moments that I might have given up a play or something,” Woodson said. “For me, this year, that’s the biggest thing, having confidence I can make every play that’s out there, and run with all the guys. I can do what I know I can do. I just have to trust myself.”
Last season, Woodson spent the year patrolling the secondary next to former Cal teammate Jaylinn Hawkins. Things will be different this year with the Patriots signing All-Pro Kevin Byard in free agency to be his new running mate.
Upon Byard’s arrival, the veteran took the No. 31 jersey that Woodson wore last season. The 25-year-old would not disclose what he received in exchange for the number, but he’s looking forward to picking up plenty more from Byard during their time together.
“I know he’s going to help me out there when it comes to seeing things, allowing the game to slow down even more than it’s stating to already,” Woodson said. “Once we get to practice and on the field, I’m sure he’s going to give me some keys and some tools that are going to help me.”
