Patriots commit no crime
Reuters
FOXOBORO, Massachusetts (REUTERS) — The New England Patriots released Pro Bowl safety Lawyer Milloy Tuesday in a surprise move less than a week before the regular season opens.
The 29-year-old has been a mainstay with the Patriots since joining the team as a rookie in 1996, starting 106 consecutive games, including a stellar season in 2001 when he led the team in tackles as New England won the Super Bowl.
Last year was not a vintage one, however, as he recorded no sacks, no forced fumbles and no interceptions, along with a career-low 91 tackles since he became a full-time starter.
The team had been trying to renegotiate his contract since April. Milloy is in the fourth season of a seven-year, $35 million contract.
The Patriots save his $4.4 million salary by cutting him now, but there are no experienced players waiting in the wings to replace him in time for the start of the regular season.
In other NFL moves, the Detroit Lions placed running back James Stewart on the injured reserve list after he was hurt in the final pre-season game and the player is expected to miss the entire season.
The Carolina Panthers signed veteran linebacker Mike Caldwell, who was released by the Chicago Bears Sunday, while the Bears signed veteran guard Corbin Lacina to a one-year contract.
The Bears hope Lacina can replace Rex Tucker, who is out for the season.