Long-Time New England Patriots Veteran Considered Retirement This Offseason

New England Patriots veteran Patrick Chung signed a two-year contract extension with the team, but his initial plans included a retirement.

Chung really wanted to retire this offseason, but the team changed his mind. New England would have lost a valuable player. However, many wouldn’t be surprised by this move because Chung sustained serious injuries.

Jeremy Fowler of ESPN reported that Chung wanted to retire before signing his contract with the Patriots. He joined the NFL in 2009, and he has become a key player for head coach Bill Belichick and the team. Chung was plagued with injuries but this didn’t stop him from winning games with the team. He was serious about his success on the floor, and Patriots players would never forget that.

The Patriots veteran couldn’t opt for a retirement

Chung is one of Belichick’s “most formidable players” on the defensive line. New England had a good deal for him, and Chung couldn’t do anything but accept it. His contract extension includes a $3 million signing bonus. Chung’s deal has a $1.1 million base salary in 2020, and he can also earn $800,000 in per-game bonuses and a $100,000 workout bonus.

If Chung stays with the team beyond the season, his new contract will have the same structure in 2021, 2022, and 2023. Hsi base salaries will be $1.9 million each year. The per-game roster bonuses will reach $400,000, with $200,000 in incentives, and a $100,000 workout bonus. This is definitely an offer he couldn’t ignore.

Chung is entering his 12th season in the NFL. He had two stints with the team. The first took place between 2009 and 2012. He came to New England to play in the years between 2014 and 2019. Chung was part of the winning squads in 2014, 2016, and 2018, and played a big role in the Super Bowl run of the Pats.

The talented veteran will turn 34 in August. He will turn 36 by the end of his contract. His contract provides an extra $925,000 in cap space for New England. Prior to reaching an agreement with him, the Patriots had $630,880 in cap space. Now they have more assets.