Earlier today, the New England Patriots hosted former Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker James Harrison, who was released by his ex-club last week, on a free agency visit. Shortly afterwards, it was reported that the team would sign the veteran to a one-year contract, adding depth and experience to the roster.
Of course, New England needed to make a corresponding transaction and according to ESPN Boston’s Mike Reiss it did just that by releasing fellow linebacker Trevor Reilly:
Patriots have released LB Trevor Reilly to make room for James Harrison. Reilly had been inactive Sunday.
Reilly originally entered the NFL as a seventh round draft pick by the New York Jets in 2014. He appeared in a total of 29 games for the Patriots’ upcoming opponent as a backup linebacker and special teamer. The Utah product also played three games for the Dolphins last season.
This year, he started on Miami's practice squad but was released early October and signed to the Patriots' practice squad two days later. On October 25, New England promoted him to its active roster. Reilly appeared in six games as a rotational linebacker and special teamer before his release earlier today.