Resilient Tackling Machine Turned NFL Rookie Standout from Cal
Craig Woodson, a 6-0, 210-lb senior DB for the California Golden Bears, dominated in 2024 with 70 tackles, 2.5 TFL, 9 PDs, 2 INTs, earning Third-team All-ACC honors before his 4th-round selection by the Patriots in 2025[1][2][3]. Battle-tested after missing 2021 with a knee injury, he bounced back as a full-time starter, showcasing relentless intensity, ball skills, and big-play ability like his 2022 pick-six[2]. Now a Pats rookie leader with 79 tackles in 2025 and 10 in Super Bowl LX, his durability, tackling prowess, and playoff poise make him a plug-and-play safety for any contending team's secondary[2][8].
