Patrick Chung, Patriots

Former Oregon Ducks star Patrick Chung signed a one-year extension with the New England Patriots Friday that keeps him with the Patriots through the 2018 season and gives him $5.7 million in new money over the next three seasons, according to a report.

(Phelan M. Ebenhack/Associated Press)

Former Oregon star Patrick Chung produced a strong season with New England in 2015, and the Patriots rewarded the safety with a contract extension.

Chung signed a one-year extension that will pay him $5.7 million in new money over the next three seasons, according to espn.com. His base salary remains the same at $1.4 million, but he received a $2.4 million signing bonus for 2016, an increase compared to an $800,000 bonus.

Source: the Patriots have signed S Patrick Chung to a 1-year extension through 2018 that includes $5.7M in new money over the next 3 seasons — Field Yates (@FieldYates) April 1, 2016

Chung, an eight-veteran, recorded 85 tackles and nine passes defended in 2015. The 85 tackles was the second-highest of his career and the nine passes defended matched his career-high. He started 14 games at safety and played 81 percent of the Patriots' defensive snaps.

Chung, 28, has performed very well since returning to the Patriots in 2014 showing an ability to play the run and cover receivers - particularly tight ends - in the Patriots defense. Chung was ranked as the seventh-best safety in 2015, according to Pro Football Focus.

-- Geoffrey C. Arnold | @geoffreyCarnold