Patriots Tender Restricted Free Agent Defensive Back

The New England Patriots haven taken a notable step toward keeping a key component of their secondary in the fold for 2023. 

Per a Tuesday afternoon ESPN report, the Patriots have tendered restricted free-agent defensive back Myles Bryant at the right-of-first-refusal level. The tender is worth $2.6 million on a one-year deal. 

Bryant’s deal will be subject to offer sheets. Should another NFL team provide one to him between March 15 and April 21, the Patriots hold the ability to match that contract or allow Bryant to play elsewhere next season without receiving draft compensation in return.

Bryant originally joined the Patriots as an undrafted free agent from Washington in 2020. In his three seasons with the Pats, the 25 year-old has compiled 123 total tackles, 10 passes-defensed, three interceptions, one sack and one forced fumble. 

Following Jonathan Jones’ shoulder injury in October 2021, Bryant became the Pats’ primary option at the slot in their defensive backfield. The hard-hitting defensive back continuously played a versatile role with New England. With the Pats often employing multiple defensive backs against their opponents, Bryant provided notable versatility to the Patriots defensive backfield, seeing most of his snaps in the slot. Though Bryant occasionally aligned as the third safety in the Pats customary three-safety set, his primary focus is typically their opponents’ slot receiver.

In his first full season as New England’s slot corner, he earned career highs in total tackles (70), solo tackles (45) and six passes-defensed. He also logged one interception and recovered a fumble. 

Bryant’s tender is the second significant move made by the Patriots in conjunction with the future of their defensive backfield. The Pats agreed to terms with Jonathan Jones on a two-year $19 million contract on Monday. 

More Patriots coverage from Sports Illustrated here.