John Lynch, a nine-time Pro Bowl safety signed by the Patriots two weeks ago, was released Sunday.
“It goes without saying but John is an all-time great safety, one of the league’s classiest professionals and his elite play speaks for itself,” coach Bill Belichick said of Lynch, who turns 37 on Sept. 25. “As has been the case in other situations, I would not rule anything out down the road.”
During their decade-long run of success, the Patriots have regularly signed veterans and often released them, only to sign them again if needed. Belichick’s comments indicate Lynch might be in that category. He has played 15 seasons, 11 with Tampa Bay and four with Denver.
“I have no regrets about my time thus far with the Patriots,” Lynch said. “The immense respect that I’ve long held for the organization has been only heightened over the past couple of weeks. I am going to keep all options open and look forward with excitement to see what the future brings.”
The Patriots also cut Chad Jackson, their second-round draft pick in 2006 from Florida. His release could be a sign that Wes Welker, nursing a rib injury, is healthy enough to play in the season opener Sunday against Kansas City.
Footnotes.
The Dolphins signed running back Ricky Williams to a one-year contract extension through the 2009 season.
• The Bengals released defensive tackle Michael Myers, who played in 15 games for Cincinnati last season after signing as an unrestricted free agent from Denver.
• The Giants signed former Eagles defensive lineman Jerome McDougle.
• Redskins longtime starting right tackle Jon Jansen has been supplanted at the position by Stephon Heyer.
The Associated Press
