The Patriots have been aware of Davon Godchaux’s contract frustrations for a while, with the 29-year-old voicing his displeasure through a post on X back in June.
New England hasn’t done anything about it, though, which led to Godchaux speaking openly and honestly about his thought process following a training camp practice Friday.
“It’s frustrating,” Godchaux told reporters at Gillette Stadium. “I’m going to leave it to my agent, let Drew (Rosenhaus) handle it. He’s been doing it for a long time. He’s got my best interest, so I’m going to control what I can control. It’s frustrating playing for no guaranteed money, but I’m going to put it in Drew’s hands.
” … I’ve been consistent throughout my eight years in the league. I want to be rewarded.”
Godchaux’s first chance to speak with media came on the same day Jabrill Peppers was rewarded with a contract extension — joining the likes of Kyle Dugger, Christian Barmore, Rhamondre Stevenson, Mike Onwenu, Hunter Henry, Kendrick Bourne, Anfernee Jennings and Joshua Uche as returning contributors who received new deals.
“I want to get paid, too, but I’m excited for those guys,” Godchaux said, shooting down an opportunity to display a sour grapes attitude. “I’m never going to show up my teammates, those are my brothers. We go to war together each and every day, on the field and off the field … I just want some stability.”
The Patriots’ ultimate decision will come down to whether they feel Godchaux can continue to produce over the course of the contract. He says it’s been “back-and-forth” between the two sides, and ultimately gave a pitch as to why he was deserving.
“I’d love to retire here,” Godchaux said. “I got a lot more years in me. I’m 29, and in this system, I feel like I can play a long time. Vince (Wilfork) played a long time, and I feel like I can play just as long as him — even longer. I’m healthy, I’ve played every game the three years I’ve been here.”
Will the Patriots ultimately add him to the list of extended players? Do they need to choose between Godchaux and Matthew Judon?
It would appear a conclusion needs to come sooner rather than later.
