Patriots vet says ‘selfish’ players are hurting the team

Davon Godchaux thinks some of his teammates are trying a little too hard to be the hero of the defense — and it’s hurting the team.

The New England Patriots veteran defensive tackle discussed his concerns about the defense during an appearance on WEEI’s “Jones and Keefe” show Monday. A year ago, the message would likely have been that players aren’t doing their jobs. Godchaux had a slightly harsher message.

“We just all gotta get on the same page,” Godchaux said. “We got guys — just being honest — some guys just being kind of selfish.”

What did Godchaux mean by “selfish?” He was talking about defenders playing outside of the system to try and make big plays, whether that’s taking a risk for an interception or trying too hard to get a big sack.

We may have seen a good bit of that Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers. Patriots defenders were criticized for losing contain on the 49ers offense, opening the door for big plays.

“I get it. I mean, we’re down,” Godchaux said. “Guys want to make plays. I get it. But everybody’s got to play — I’m talking about defense — everybody has to play as 11. Everybody’s got to sacrifice to do what’s best for the team.”

Godchaux thinks the Patriots have a good team, but is critical of the way the team is playing right now. While he focused on the defense, the veteran said that it applies to every unit, whether it’s offense, defense or special teams.

“It’s coming from me,” Godchaux said. “I’ve seen a lot of football where I can tell — and I’m not calling nobody out. I know guys are just trying to make plays. And I get it. Everybody is trying to make a play to get us back in the game.”

The 6-foot-3, 330-pound Godchaux is a key part of the Patriots defense, acting as a big run stuffer in the middle of the defensive line. The 29-year-old is now in his third season in New England.

There were concerns in training camp that Godchaux’s contract could be an issue. However, he and the Patriots came together for a two-year contract extension to keep him in New England through 2026.