2021 NFL roster cuts: Patriots reportedly release veteran defensive tackle Akeem Spence

The New England Patriots released defensive tackle Akeem Spence leading up to the NFL’s roster deadline on Tuesday, according to Doug Kyed of Pro Football Focus.

Spence, 29, had joined New England’s practice squad last November and signed to the active roster in December after serving as an elevation. He appeared in six games over that span, recording nine tackles while seeing 104 snaps on defense and 21 snaps on special teams.

The Illinois product originally entered the league with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fourth round of the 2013 draft at No. 100 overall.

Spence has also been a member of the Detroit Lions, Miami Dolphins, Philadelphia Eagles and Jacksonville Jaguars. Through 109 games and 57 starts in his career, the veteran defensive lineman stands with 204 tackles, 10.5 sacks, one forced fumble and four fumble recoveries.

Rosters around the NFL will stand at 53 by 4 p.m. ET.