They have plans to change that this year.
Devin McCourty serves as a reliable No. 1 cornerback, and Kyle Arrington filled in nicely alongside him in the starting lineup last season, tying for the league lead with seven interceptions. But the Patriots are hoping that Ras-I Dowling, who was drafted with the 33rd pick of the 2011 draft and had his rookie season derailed by a hip injury, will occupy the starting outside corner spot opposite McCourty, according to Pro Football Weekly.
If healthy, Dowling is expected to win a starting spot, which he held at the beginning of last season. While Arrington was effective in 2011, he is considered to be a better fit to play in the slot.
The Patriots finished the season ranked No. 31 in the NFL in pass defense, allowing nearly 300 yards a game through the air, so any possible solutions to their dismal pass defense will be explored.
Photo via Twitter/@MikeReiss
