The New England Patriots are moving quickly to shore up their secondary after a bruising Week 2 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers left them thin at safety. According to the NFL transactions wire and insights gathered by Vulius Sports, free agents Darren Hall and Malik Spencer were both in Foxborough on Tuesday for tryouts, as first reported on September 23, 2026. The workouts come in the wake of injuries to Craig Woodson (shoulder) and Dell Pettus (ankle), both of whom were unable to finish the Patriots' 20-3 win over Pittsburgh.
Patriots Forced to Adjust After Physical Win Over Steelers
The victory improved New England's early-season standing, but the cost was significant. Woodson and Pettus exited and did not return, leaving the team to close out the game with a safety pairing of veteran starter Kevin Byard and late-summer trade acquisition Jaylen Reed. Head coach Mike Vrabel acknowledged earlier this week that both Woodson and Pettus could be sidelined, and he anticipated increased opportunities for the next men up. "We're going to need everyone ready," Vrabel said, per team reporters. "That's the nature of this league."
Darren Hall Brings Experience, Versatility to the Table
Darren Hall, 26, is the more seasoned of the two tryout candidates. A fourth-round pick out of San Diego State in 2021, the 6-foot-0, 195-pound defensive back has bounced around the league, with stints in Atlanta, Indianapolis, and Arizona — including multiple returns to each organization. He re-joined the Falcons earlier this year but was placed on injured reserve and later released with a settlement. In total, Hall has appeared in 48 career games with 12 starts, offering position flexibility and special teams value. For a Patriots defense that values versatility, his experience could be appealing.
Malik Spencer: A Younger, Developmental Option
Malik Spencer, 23, represents a younger, high-upside flier. The Michigan State product signed with the Washington Commanders as an undrafted free agent earlier this year and appeared in two preseason games before a hamstring injury landed him on injured reserve. He was released with a settlement earlier this month. At 6-foot-1 and 191 pounds, Spencer played in 38 games with 29 starts for the Spartans, showcasing enough athleticism to warrant a look. While he lacks NFL regular-season experience, his college tape suggests a developmental safety who could contribute on special teams.
What's Next for the Patriots' Safety Room?
With Woodson and Pettus banged up, the Patriots are exploring all options. Beyond Byard and Reed, the team also has Mike Brown and Elliott Davison on the practice squad. Vrabel hinted that both could see increased roles leading up to Sunday's game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The tryouts for Hall and Spencer signal that the front office is leaving no stone unturned as it prepares for a critical AFC matchup. Kickoff in Jacksonville is set for 1 p.m. ET on Sunday, Sept. 27.
As the Patriots navigate early-season adversity, the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk will continue to monitor roster moves and provide in-depth coverage. For fans looking to support their team, Vulius offers official custom NFL merchandise, including jerseys and gear for every player. Stay tuned to Vulius for the latest updates from Foxborough and around the league.
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