Kyle Arrington the safety?

Kyle Arrington takes reps at safety in a crowded secondary .(Nancy Lane/Boston Herald)

During yesterday's joint practice with the Washington Redskins, Kyle Arrington did something he hasn't done before. If you blinked you may have missed it, but Arrington stepped into the safety position alongside Devin McCourty for two plays according to Andy Hart of Patriots.com. Most people will roll their eyes and not give a second thought to this, but it may be worth remembering for a few reasons.

Most Patriots fans have mixed feelings about the six year veteran. Most highlight his flaws in pass coverage, for getting beat by superior receivers deep or falling for a double move. Thankfully, due to the additions of Revis and Browner, and the emergence of Logan Ryan and Alfonzo Dennard, Arrington can play in the slot/nickel CB spot where he can use his quickness to combat shifty slot receivers. But what if he was asked to play a zone strong safety?

Arrington has a knack for making some tough, blue-collar plays, like several of his interceptions and pass break ups in years past.







He is slightly undersized to be a safety at 5'10" 190 lbs, but he could be able to provide another pass coverage presence in the secondary that would potentially be an upgrade over the likes of Tavon Wilson, Patrick Chung, or Duron Harmon. While he may not be asked to play safety frequently, given the number of talented corners on the team, Belichick likes to maximize players' talents to get them on the field, where the best 11 can all play together. Is he a better option at safety over the three previously mentioned? I won't go that far yet until we see him there for extended reps, but he is worth a look there.

Last year, he was sent on several blitzes and actually recorded two sacks, showing his ability to do multiple defensive roles. Arrington has also averaged 73.75 tackles over the last four years as a starting corner, showing his eagerness to engage ball carriers. And let's not forget his seven interception season in 2011. Arrington's contract has him tied to New England through the 2016 season, which Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald breaks down. Until then, Arrington needs to find a role on the defense that will allow him to be on the field. Whether it will be at safety or corner, that is yet to be seen.

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