Analyzing the terms for Brandon Bolden’s contract with Patriots

Running back Brandon Bolden and the New England Patriots signed a two-year deal worth up to $4.7 million. Here’s how that deal came together, according to ESPN’s Mike Reiss.

Brandon Bolden: 2 years, total value 4.7 million

Signing bonus: $1 million

2019
Base: $1m (gt’d)
Roster bonus: $200k ($12.5k per game)
Incentives: $500k

2020
Base: $1.3m
Roster bonus: $200k ($12.5k per game)
Incentives: $500k

ANALYSIS: Strong deal. Good chance he is on team

— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) March 15, 2019

Chances Bolden makes the roster: 75 percent.

What the contract means for Bolden: The Patriots showed an increased commitment to special teams this offseason, even by their own standards. They added Bolden and former Jets safety Terrance Brooks. Bolden will help the Patriots cover kickoffs, which was a major (and deeply surprising) weakness for New England in 2018. Bolden’s work as a running back was limited hugely in the final two years with the Patriots. Perhaps that’s why they let him leave for the Miami Dolphins in 2018. The Patriots will likely roster Bolden in the coming season to help revamp their coverage units to ensure they are again one of the best special teams units in the NFL.