Patriots rising second-year player makes NFL’s All-Breakout Team

New England Patriots safety Craig Woodson will be primed to build off of the rookie year that he had in 2025 as a second-year pro in 2026, which forecasts to be with much success.

The NFL’s Bucky Brooks named Woodson to his All-Breakout Team for next season at the safety position.

“The underrated safety is a ‘glue guy’ for the Patriots as a back-end defender with outstanding instincts, awareness and communication skills,” Brooks wrote. “…Although his statistical production as a rookie didn't jump off the stat sheet (79 tackles, three passes defended and two fumble recoveries in 2025), Woodson's positive impact as a role player could earn him high marks from coaches and executives when they privately discuss hidden gems in league circles.”

Woodson is set to start for the Patriots at safety once again in 2026. He came up big for New England in the regular season and the playoffs last season, though he also has room to polish his game.

As a rookie, he appeared in 17 games and started in 15 games, racking up 79 combined tackles, three passes defended, four tackles for a loss and two fumble recoveries. His level of play continued to improve greatly in the postseason with him registering 30 combined tackles, one interception, six passes defended and one fumble recovery.

Woodson will have the chance to make his presence felt for the Patriots in 2026 and help the team get over the hump in the Super Bowl hunt.

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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Patriots rising second-year player makes NFL’s All-Breakout Team