Devin McCourty, Patriots reportedly have ‘mutual interest’ in extension
By Alex Barth, 985TheSportsHub.com
It’s not all doom and gloom in New England Thursday morning.
According to reports out of the NFL Combine, the Patriots and safety Devin McCourty are expected to work on a deal to bring the 32-year-old back to New England.
There’s mutual interest between Devin McCourty and the Patriots, per source. Sounds like the two sides will meet soon to talk an extension. He’s expected to have a solid market, so we’ll see how it plays out.
— Mark Daniels (@ByMarkDaniels) February 27, 2020
McCourty started 16 games for the Patriots last year, recording 58 tackles and 5 interceptions. He is expected to be one of the top safety options if he hits the open market.
When McCourty was an unrestricted free agent after the 2014 season, the Patriots allowed him to test the market and come back to them with the best deal, which they matched. It’s likely they could employ that strategy again, although uncertainty around the salary cap and new CBA agreement could put a hold on the process.
The Patriots have been in communication with Devin McCourty’s camp. While the two sides haven’t met formally, the understanding is the Patriots want the veteran safety back. Waiting on the new CBA has kept formal discussions from happening.
— Karen Guregian (@kguregian) February 27, 2020
McCourty is one of the Patriots’ four player reps for the NFLPA (along with Matt Slater, Ted Karras, and Joe Cardona) and is involved in the ongoing CBA discussions.
Last year, only Stephon Gilmore played more defensive snaps for the Patriots than McCourty (93.85 percent). It would make sense for the team to bring him back, but it could turn into a waiting game.
Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Hate mail? Let him hear it on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at [email protected].
