Tavon’s time? Rookie could start – New England Patriots Blog – ESPN Boston

If Gregory can’t go Sunday it should be interesting to see how things trickle down in the secondary, especially in the dime. Nate Ebner and Ras-I Dowling could see some more snaps. Personally I’d prefer moving Moore back to safety, keep Wilson at Money, and stick Ras-I on the outside in the dime only. Nate Ebner on the back end against Peyton Manning is not what I want to see.

Through four games, Wilson has logged 38.8 percent of the defensive snaps. His primary role has been at the “money” position in the dime defense (6 defensive backs), which is a linebacker-type responsibility. He also has rotated into the mix in the base defense, and overall, he has shown a nose for the ball at times (2 interceptions, 2 fumble recoveries). The trickle-down effect of not having Gregory, whose smarts have been lauded by the coaching staff, would also likely impact the dime defense. If Wilson remains in the traditional safety role, rookie Nate Ebner could get bumped up the safety depth chart and play the “money” position. The Patriots have other options, as cornerback Sterling Moore has safety experience, and Ras-I Dowling has also played the “money” spot this year.