Brandon Meriweather:
Many across the league will see this as a major shock but Patriots fans know that Meriweather never truly played to his two time Pro Bowl status. Meriweather's lack of discipline within the scheme and his tendency to freelance ultimately tested the patience of Bill Belichick too much. It was somewhat of a shock still however as the Patriots lack great safety play and released James Sanders prior to the deadline. Sergio Brown and Patrick Chung appear to be the projected starters right now which could be worrying for Patriots fans.

Sammy Morris:
Morris fell victim to the numbers game in the Patriots backfield as rookies Shane Vereen and Stevan Ridley were always going to make the roster with BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Danny Woodhead already in the fray. Morris has only been a bit part player in New England because of injury but will have a chance to land with another roster. A notable running back move also made was the Patriots putting Kevin Faulk on the physically unable to perform list which will make him miss the first six weeks of the season at least.

Brandon Tate:
As soon as the NFL changed its kickoff rules Brandon Tate's job was in jeopardy. He has excelled for the Patriots as a returner but never made the desired impact as a receiver. Tate has the speed and all the physical abilities to be an NFL receiver but needs more time to develop better consistency and an understanding of the game. Tate will definitely be considered a bust for the Patriots especially for the fact that he was drafted one place before Mike Wallace of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Tight ends Lee Smith and Will Yeatman, running back Eric Kettani, offensive lineman Thomas Austin, linebacker Niko Koutouvides, cornerback Ross Ventrone, and defensive linemen Markell Carter, Landon Cohen, Aaron Lavarias, Eric Moore and Alex Silvestro were also released.


Defensive Linemen Ron Brace and Brandon Deaderick join Kevin Faulk on the PUP list.