The New England Patriots continue shuffling their defensive backfield. Today, the team announced that it has released undrafted rookie cornerback Eric Patterson. The move should not be considered a surprise, as Patterson was a long-shot to make the Patriots' 53-man roster.
The team's official press release states the following about the now former Patriot:
Patterson, 22, was signed by the Patriots as a rookie free agent out of Ball State on May 8, 2015. The 5-foot-10, 193-pounder, started in 28 of 41 games during his four-year career at Ball State and finished with 135 total tackles and six interceptions. He was used as a kickoff returner as a senior in 2014 and was named to the 2014 All-Mid-American Conference First Team after finishing with 23 kickoffs for 590 yards.
Releasing Patterson leaves the Patriots with 89 players on the roster (44 defense, 42 offense, 3 special teams) and thus one open spot, which will likely be filled in the upcoming days.