The Patriots continue to make changes at the tight end spot, announcing today (via Twitter) that they’ve released Fred Davis, just over a month after signing him. Davis is the second notable tight end to be cut by New England in June, as the team also waived Tim Wright last week.
Davis, 29, sat out all of last season after the NFL suspended him indefinitely for substance-abuse violations. The league reinstated him earlier in the offseason. Prior to 2014, the former second-round pick spent six seasons in Washington and caught 162 passes and 13 touchdowns. His best year came in 2011, when he amassed 59 receptions and 796 yards.
Davis’ contract with the Patriots didn’t include any guaranteed salary, and his bonus money consisted of a modest workout bonus and unearned roster bonuses, so the move won’t have an impact on the club’s salary cap.
With Davis and Wright no longer in the mix, Rob Gronkowski, Scott Chandler, Michael Hoomanawanui, and sixth-round rookie A.J. Derby figure to handle the majority of the tight end load heading into training camp.