In what can be seen as a somewhat surprising move, the New England Patriots have announced the release of veteran offensive lineman Mark LeVoir.
LeVoir, 29, was originally claimed off waivers in 2008 from the St. Louis Rams. That year, he played in all sixteen games, making two spot starts, and performing pretty well. Although his role was limited the last two seasons, LeVoir was solid when he saw the field, and also played on special teams.
Last week, I had LeVoir making the Patriots based on my 53 man roster projection. The reason: LeVoir can play both tackle spots and was also working in at guard this training camp.
LeVoir's release certainly opens up the door for a younger offensive lineman to make the Patriots' squad. Perhaps that player could be Steve Maneri, who looked impressive blocking downfield in the Patriots' preseason opener. LeVoir's release could also mean that the team keeps an extra interior lineman, with third year player Rich Ohrnberger being a possibility.