According to a “league source,” the New England Patriots will be releasing cornerback Kyle Arrington, reports ESPN’s Mike Reiss. Arrington had two years left on a four-year, $16 million contract and was set to earn a $3 million salary in 2015, with a total cap charge of $4.625 million.
Arrington spent six years with the Patriots, with 56 starts. He totaled nine interceptions, 45 passes defensed and 291 combined tackles. He was the NFL’s interception leader in 2011, totaling seven. A one-time practice squadder, Arrington eventually worked his way into the Patriots’ starting lineup as their slot cornerback. According to Pro Football Focus (subscription required), Arrington allowed 34 catches on 57 passes thrown his direction last year and gave up just one touchdown.
The Patriots’ secondary has undergone numerous changes this offseason. They lost fellow cornerbacks Darrelle Revis and Brandon Browner in free agency and released 2012 draft pick, Alfonzo Dennard, last week. The Patriots aren’t lacking for cornerbacks, however, with Malcolm Butler, Bradley Fletcher and Logan Ryan among the veterans who remain. They also added three rookie cornerbacks, Darryl Roberts, Jimmy Jean and Eric Patterson.
The release does not mean that Arrington’s split from the Patriots will be permanent. Reiss’ source says that “a reunion… has not been ruled out,” meaning that he could re-join the roster at a lower price. But if he does not, the Patriots don’t seem to be hard up for cornerback help, even though it does mean their trio of starters will be completely different than it was last season.
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