After two seasons splitting time between defensive end and outside linebacker, Alex Carrington has found a home at defensive tackle. Carrington made the cut to the 53-man roster once again last Friday.
The former Arkansas State defensive end is currently the team's fourth defensive tackle on the depth chart behind starters Kyle Williams, Marcell Dareus and nine-year veteran Spencer Johnson.
Carrington saw playing time in every game last season, recording 16 tackles and one sack at outside linebacker and defensive end in the 3-4 scheme. This year the defense has switched back to a 4-3 defense primarily.
"It's been a pretty good transition (to defensive tackle)," said Carrington. "Giff Smith (Defensive line coach), Kyle Williams and a lot of the inside guys have been helping me out by learning the ins and outs of the position. It's not much different than (defensive) end, but things just happen faster down there."
Head coach Chan Gailey said Carrington is picking up the position quickly and likes where he is headed.
"He's done a good job," said Gailey. "We've moved him around a lot in the last couple years and he's finally fitting in very well and learning how to play defensive tackle and how to be a more consistent football player."
Through three preseason games, Carrington (6'5" 301) had not registered any tackles. He finished the preseason on a strong note recording two tackles and one sack against the Detroit Lions.
With an experienced and highly talented defensive line this year, Carrington said he's excited to learn and be a part of such a special group.
"It's good to play with Mario Williams and Kyle Williams," said Carrington. "It definitely makes you step your game up. You have to be on the same page with everybody. Learning football with those kinds of players is something I'm blessed with. I'm trying to take advantage of it everyday."
