Adrian Phillips isn’t a typical safety, even if the New England Patriots have made a habit of identifying players with a similar skill set. Patrick Chung and Phillips have a similar brand of play, but they are uniquely talented individuals who can handle a great number of responsibilities.
When New England added Phillips this offseason, he didn’t spend his time learning the playbook with the safeties alone. He worked with linebackers, too. And judging from his role in Week 1, that work proved essential. Phillips spent most of his time in the box. Though he spent a great deal of time in coverage — and even managed an interception — Phillips lined up like a linebacker before the snap.