FOXBOROUGH — As the Patriots introduced their defensive starters before Monday Night Football against the Giants, there were plenty of familiar faces, from Christian Gonzalez to Christian Barmore.
Then there was Cory Durden.
The 26-year-old defensive tackle is in his third NFL season, but Monday was his first career start. Undrafted in 2023, Durden had spent time with the Lions, Rams, and most recently, Giants. New York cut him at the end of training camp and he landed in New England.
Durden had earned more playing time under Mike Vrabel, logging at least 30 snaps in New England’s three previous games, and with Milton Williams on injured reserve and Khyiris Tonga out with a chest injury, it was time for Durden to step up.
After a 33-15 win over Durden’s former team, Vrabel was pleased with what he saw from the defensive lineman in a starting role.
“Cory Durden’s been playing a lot for us, and we brought him over here… from the Giants. They let him go,” Vrabel said. “And that game meant a lot to him. They told him he wasn’t good enough to play for the Giants, and we thought he was good enough to play for the Patriots. So I’m happy for him. Made some plays and continues to help us, but also help himself. And I love that.”
