Vince Wilfork stays with New England Patriots

Jan 20, 2013; Foxboro, MA, USA; New England Patriots defensive tackle Vince Wilfork (75) lines up against the Baltimore Ravens in the first quarter of the AFC championship game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports

Vince Wilfork has singed a new, restructured contract with the New England Patriots. The deal is for three years, and worth $22.5 million, per ESPN Insider Adam Schefter.  

A few weeks ago, it looked like Wilfork was all but gone in New England, but the two sides were able to work out a new deal at the annual meetings this week. Patriots owner Robert Kraft had been pushing for Wilfork’s return, calling him “a personal favorite.” Wilfork has been the face of New England’s D for some time, and this season, he’ll be helped by added talent behind him in the form of cornerbacks Darrelle Revis and Brandon Browner.

For the Patriots, it looked like it could be another March when the organization would let productive players walk. However, the re-signings of Wilfork and Julian Edelman have proved otherwise, especially when it once looked like both guys might not be back. Pats fans have to be happy with the the offseason so far.

It is important to note that Wilfork will be coming off a season-ending torn Achilles injury heading into 2014. At his age (and size), it’s no easy task to come back and play at the All-Pro level that he’s been at for most of his career.