FOXBOROUGH – There’s uncertainty in the NFL Draft. Teams never really know if they’ve acquired an instant contributor until that rookie enters his first offseason. As the draft unfolds, it becomes less likely that a player will make an immediate impact.

That’s why what Craig Woodson is doing is so impressive.

The fourth-round pick has started 10 of 11 games for the Patriots this season. The rookie safety enters this week, leading the Patriots in defensive snaps played (97.6%). Woodson is the only player drafted in the fourth round last spring to have started 10 games this season.

“It’s been a blessing. I’m just trying to take advantage of the opportunity,” Woodson said. “A lot of people don’t get this opportunity this fast, but for me to have it, I’m just trying to take it day by

See Full Page