Alfonzo Dennard scheduled to appear in court two days before the opener

Nov 18, 2012; Foxboro, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots cornerback Alfonzo Dennard (37) celebrates with strong safety Tavon Wilson (27) after Wilson made an interception during the fourth quarter against the Indianapolis Colts at Gillette Stadium. The New England Patriots won 59-24. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports /

The New England Patriots much maligned secondary really received a boost from the addition of Alfonzo Dennard last season.

Dennard was projected as a second or third round pick in the 2012 draft, but because of a run in with the law in Lincoln, the Nebraska product wasn’t selected until the seventh round (224th overall). Dennard assaulted a police officer and in April, he was sentenced to 30 days in jail.

In 2012, Dennard wound up becoming a major contributor for the Patriots last season. In 10 games, he had 35 tackles, three interceptions (one for a touchdown), seven passes defended and a forced fumble.

He’s fought through injuries and has been unavailable in the preseason.

Even though Dennard appears to be getting healthy, another brush with the law could hurt his chances of playing major minutes in the season opener September 8 against the Buffalo Bills. Dennard was arrested on suspicion of a DUI in July. According to Pro Football Talk, his court date is currently scheduled for September 6, two days before the opener.

Since Dennard was on probation when he was arrested again, he may wind up serving his 30 day sentence (it appeared as though he wouldn’t have to as long as he stayed out of trouble while on probation) during the season.

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