2021 NFL free agency: Patriots re-sign special teamer Cody Davis on a two-year contract

The New England Patriots already locked up one core member of their special teams unit last week when they signed cornerback Justin Bethel to a three-year contract extension. Now, they were able to keep a second from hitting the open market as well: safety Cody Davis took to social media to announce that he will return to New England on a two-year deal.

Davis’ son Kane had the honor of doing the announcement:

Davis originally joined the Patriots last offseason and went on to appear in 13 of a possible 16 games for the team in 2020. A core member of the special teams operation, Davis was employed both on the kickoff return and coverage units as well as the two punt teams — including in Nate Ebner’s old role of personal protector for All-Pro punter Jake Bailey.

Furthermore, he also saw regular snaps as a member of New England’s field goal and extra point blocking units. Despite missing three games on injured reserve due to a rib ailment, Davis still finished third on the team in kicking game snaps (256 of 397; 64.5%).

Davis made a major impact on one of the NFL’s top special teams groups. Whether it was downfield blocking for another All-Pro, punt returner Gunner Olszewski, helping out in coverage by registering nine tackles, or pressuring opposing punters, the 31-year-old did it all. His most prominent play, however, came as a field goal blocker: in Week 13, he blocked a Los Angeles Chargers attempt that was subsequently returned for a touchdown by Devin McCourty.

Even though the Patriots did not give him any opportunities at his listed position of safety, Davis had a highly productive first season with the team. Now, he will get an opportunity to build off of it.