Patriots Release WR Donald Jones

The veteran competition at the wide receiver position has been cut down by one, as the New England Patriots have announced the release of Donald Jones.

Jones, 25, was initially signed to a three year contract by the team when free agency opened back in March. After recording a career high 41 receptions for the Bills in 2012, Jones was expected by many to compete for a role as a #3 or #4 receiver for the Patriots.

Nonetheless, this move is not all too surprising considering the depth the team has at receiver. The team, when assessing the receiver position, probably figured that Jones was a longshot to make the final roster, and opted to make the move now rather than later.

From a financial standpoint, the Patriots won't be set back much by making this move. In fact, the team saves a $200k "report to camp" bonus that Jones would have received next week.