The New England Patriots’ first three free agency signings this year follow a common thread: all of them target the defensive side of the ball. The most recent of them is cornerback Carlton Davis, a former Detroit Lions cornerback who is joining the team on a reported three-year, $60 million contract.

Let’s grade it.

Instant grade: Patriots sign Carlton Davis to 3-year, $60 million deal

Bernd Buchmasser: The Patriots knew they needed a running mate to pair with All-Pro Christian Gonzalez, and Davis will be just that for them. While he did end the 2024 season prematurely due to a jaw fracture, he is a quality addition and complements Gonzalez’s play style well. | Grade: A

Brian Hines: Davis played one of the highest rates of man coverage in Detroit (where Terrell Williams was on staff) last year and has been a productive player on the ball throughout his career. He should be a near perfect complement opposite of Christian Gonzalez in New England’s secondary. | Grade: A

Matt St. Jean: Carlton Davis is a high-end CB2 with the right skill-set to play across from Christian Gonzalez. He consistently has good production when teams throw the ball his way with 84 passes defended in his career. He also played with new Patriots DC Terrell Williams in Detroit last year. | Grade: A

Pat Lane: Davis should give the Patriots a lockdown corner on the other side of Gonzo. Experience with Terrell Williams is an added bonus as well. Corner was a sneaky need for the Patriots, and Davis should fill that need nicely. | Grade: A

With Davis in the fold, the Patriots now have eight cornerbacks under contract. He is joining Christian Gonzalez as well as Marcus Jones, Alex Austin, Marcellas Dial Jr., Isaiah Bolden, Miles Battle and D.J. James.

What do you think about the signing, though? Do you like it? Do you not? Please head to the comment section to discuss.