The New England Patriots have a significant need at cornerback this offseason, as Christian Gonzalez is their only proven talent at the position.
However, one young player who showed promise last season is Alex Austin. Fortunately for New England, the 23-year-old will be back next season after signing his exclusive rights tender, according to ESPN’s Mike Reiss. Austin is set to become a restricted free agent in 2026.
A product of Oregon State, Austin appeared in nine games last season, recording nine tackles and five passes defended. His role expanded significantly late in the year—after playing just 14 snaps over the Patriots’ first 11 games, he was on the field for 92.4% of the team’s defensive snaps in Week 17.
Originally drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the seventh round of the 2023 NFL Draft, Austin was waived before the start of his rookie season. He then joined the Houston Texans, playing in three games before being released in November. That’s when the Patriots stepped in, signing Austin and giving him the opportunity to contribute. In five games with New England, he recorded nine tackles, an interception, and a pass defended.
At 6-foot-1 with solid ball skills, Austin has the potential to carve out a role in the Patriots’ secondary in 2025. Still, it’s clear that New England must strengthen the cornerback group.
Luckily, the Patriots have more salary cap space than any other team heading into free agency, giving them the flexibility to address this pressing need.
It remains to be seen how they’ll approach the position in the coming weeks.