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Patriots Extend Patrick Chung By One Year

By Matt Dolloff, CBS Boston

BOSTON (CBS) -- Patrick Chung has enjoyed a career resurgence since returning to the New England Patriots after a brief stint in Philadelphia, and now the team plans to keep him around a bit longer. The team and Chung have agreed on a one-year contract extension, ESPN's Field Yates reported Friday.

The extension is $5.7 million in new money spread out over the next three seasons, plus a $2.4 million signing bonus. In total, it's essentially a three-year, $9.3 million deal for Chung. Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald has a complete breakdown of the extension.

Since returning to New England after spending one season with the Eagles and getting cut after the 2013 season, Chung has developed into a fine all-around safety and nice complement for Devin McCourty in the Patriots secondary. Pro Football Focus graded him an 88.4 overall in 2015, bordering on "Elite" status and ranking him ahead of McCourty and other high-end NFL safeties like the Chiefs' Eric Berry and the Broncos' T.J. Ward.


SEE ALSO: Breer: Terrance Knighton A 'Valuable Piece' On Patriots Defensive Line


Chung has always been a good tackler, but his coverage skills have noticeably improved, making him a key player in the Patriots' surprisingly strong performance in the back end of the defense in 2015. This deal is essentially a reward for Chung's valuable contributions.

What do you think about the Patriots keeping Chung around for another season?

Matt Dolloff is a writer for CBSBostonSports.com. His opinions do not necessarily reflect that of CBS or 98.5 The Sports Hub. Have a news tip or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff and email him at mdolloff@985thesportshub.com.

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