Safety wasn't high on the New England Patriots' list of priorities entering free agency, but they were in the market for depth after losing Patrick Chung to the Philadelphia Eagles.
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The Patriots' depth came in the form of five-time Pro Bowl selection Adrian Wilson who signed with the New England Patriots on Friday, a source confirmed to NFL.com's Albert Breer. Breer later reported the contract is for three years.
Mike Jurecki of XTRA 910 Phoenix first reported the news.
A 162-game starter across 12 seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, Wilson will turn 34-years-old in October. After a fine season in 2011, he was removed from nickel packages ostensibly due to coverage deficiencies last season.
As a box safety, Wilson likely will be charged with early-down duties in New England, giving way to Steve Gregory or Tavon Wilson in obvious passing situations. It's a role that Rodney Harrison filled effectively at the same stage of his career.
UPDATE: NFL.com's Albert Breer reported Tuesday that Wilson's deal is worth $5 million. Wilson gets a $1 million signing bonus, base salaries of $1 million, $1.5 million and $1.5 million.
Follow Chris Wesseling on Twitter @ChrisWesseling.
