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The Patriots continued their recent shopping spree on Thursday afternoon by signing veteran cornerback Kindle Vildor to a one-year deal.

A former fifth-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft out of Georgia Southern, Vildor arrives in Foxborough after spending the 2025 season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers where he carved out a niche as a reliable depth piece and a consistent contributor on special teams.

Over 12 games in Tampa, Vildor recorded 16 tackles and an interception, showcasing a particular proficiency in zone coverage schemes that should mesh well with the Patriots’ current defensive philosophy.

The move marks a notable reunion between Vildor and Head Coach Mike Vrabel, as the two crossed paths during a brief stint in Tennessee during the 2023 season. Vildor is the third former Titans defensive back to join the Patriots’ secondary this offseason, following the high-profile addition of All-Pro safety Kevin Byard and safety Mike Brown.

Vildor will replace the rotational snaps and special teams production left behind by the departing Alex Austin who signed with the Dolphins last week.

Standing 5’11” and weighing 189 pounds, Vildor brings a wealth of experience to a cornerback room headlined by Christian Gonzalez, Carlton Davis III, and Marcus Jones. With 27 career starts across five different NFL franchises, including a productive tenure with the Detroit Lions’ during their 2023 playoff run, he provides an insurance policy in the event that the Patriots have injuries.

While Vildor is currently projected to slot in around fifth on the depth chart, his ability to play on the outside and in the slot make him a high-value addition for a team looking to solidify its secondary depth.