FOXBORO — After the Patriots’ win over the Dolphins two weeks ago, there may not have been a happier player in the locker room than Kyle Arrington.

Undrafted out of Hofstra last year, Arrington spent most of last season on the Buccaneers’ practice squad (he was originally signed by the Eagles) and played in Tampa Bay’s regular-season opener this year before being released.

New England claimed the 5-foot-10, 196-pound Maryland native and placed him on its practice squad, but when Cleveland came calling, wanting to place Arrington on its 53-man roster two weeks ago, the Pats had a choice: promote the young defensive back or lose him to the Browns.

Not only did they elect to hang onto Arrington, but he was soon in uniform and on the field as a special-teams player. After the Dolphins game, he was sporting a grin from ear to ear as he talked about his excitement at getting the chance to play. Arrington had two special-teams tackles against Miami and two of the four the Pats had against Indianapolis last Sunday.

Here’s this week’s Up Close.

Favorite TV Show: Well… “Smallville.” And “Family Guy.”

Favorite meal: Definitely my mom’s macaroni and cheese. It’s been months (since he had it) — too long. I’m overdue. She’s coming for Thanksgiving, though.

First job: Champs. I sold shoes for eight hours a day. That’s how I started my (sneaker) collection.

My heroes: My parents. I know everyone says that, but most of us wouldn’t be where we are without them.

Pre-game ritual: Listen to music, basically, some hip-hop, 50 Cent or Lil Wayne to get me going.

Prized possessions: My shoes

Last concert I went to: I’ve never been to one. I’m overdue for that, too! A friend asked me to go see Beyonce last offseason, but I don’t like her that much, not enough to be standing for a concert and all that. If it’s Lil Wayne, I’m there.

Favorite athlete in another sport: I’m a hometown guy, so I’d say Gilbert Arenas (of the Washington Wizards). Also Dwyane Wade — when I play, I try to play just like him.

Place I’d like to visit that I haven’t yet: I’m such a homebody … I guess I’d say Paris for the experience, the culture. And Hollywood — I’d like to try acting.

If my life were made into a movie: It would have to be me (that plays him) — only I would do the best imitation of me. It would be action, definitely, so I could have my shirt off half the time.

smanza@projo.com