Tuesday Afternoon Notes: Patriots Work Out QB Kafka, TE Winslow and Release FB Kettani

Passing along a few Patriots-related notes this Tuesday afternoon:

Patriots Release FB Eric Kettani

According to multiple reports, the Patriots have released fullback Eric Kettani from the practice squad. It's disappointing to see for Kettani, but hardly surprising since the Patriots recently added fullback James Develin to the practice squad. The moves leaves the Patriots with one open spot on the practice squad.

Patriots Work Out QB Mike Kafka

Multiple reports have indicated that the Patriots worked out quarterback Mike Kafka today. Kafka was drafted in the fourth round of the 2010 draft by the Eagles, but was released last week after having the lost the #3 quarterback competition to Trent Edwards. The Patriots recently released their #2 quarterback, Brian Hoyer, after he lost the back-up job to Ryan Mallett (and was due a $1.9 million base salary). The Patriots could be comfortable with just Brady and Mallett, but if they want a solid #3 quarterback on the cheap, Kafka would seemingly be a strong option.

Patriots to Host TE Kellen Winslow on Visit

Are they serious or are they just trolling? The Patriots already have four starting caliber tight ends on their active roster (five if you count Jake Ballard - currently on the PUP list) in Rob Gronkowski, Aaron Hernandez, Daniel Fells, and Visanthe Shiancoe. However, according to a report from Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com, the Patriots will bring in free agent Kellen Winslow for a visit. Winslow is experienced, and will likely be an emergency list contact for the Patriots. But considering the way the Patriots have accumulated tight ends this year... who knows?

Note: Peter King wrote in August that the Patriots considered pursuing a trade for Winslow before they signed Visanthe Shiancoe. So perhaps this visit is in conjunction to Shiancoe's injury. Shiancoe is regarded as a candidate for the new "designated for return" IR rule.