Patriots release 7th-round rookie WR Tre Nixon, two other players Monday

The Patriots got a jump on their final roster cuts Monday evening, releasing three players before the NFL’s 53-man roster deadline Tuesday.

Seventh-round rookie wide receiver Tre Nixon and defensive lineman Bill Murray were both cut, sources confirmed to the Herald. Backup safety Adrian Colbert was also let go, according to reports. Colbert confirmed his release on social media, where he thanked the organization for his opportunity this summer.

None of the team’s initial cuts were expected to make the final 53.

Nixon was slowed by injuries in his first training camp, when he repped exclusively with offensive reserves and returned kicks. He made two catches for 11 yards in the preseason, with another target falling incomplete. The 6-foot-2, 180-pound was highly regarded for his downfield speed, but couldn’t stay on the field long enough this summer to build momentum and push for a roster spot.

Nixon was the final pick in the Patriots’ 2021 draft class out of Central Florida. He is a candidate to return to the 16-man practice squad.

Out of Monday’s cuts, Murray is the player most likely to draw outside interest on waivers. He collected 1.5 sacks in the Pats’ preseason finale at the Giants on Sunday. He finishedamong the NFL’s most productive pass rushers this preseason, per Pro Football Focus player grades.

Murray, 22, played multiple spots along the defensive line and was a regular on special teams during training camp. He originally signed with the team in May 2020 as an undrafted rookie free agent out of William & Mary. He spent all of last season on the team’s practice squad.

Colbert filled one of the Patriots’ last available roster spots back in May as a free agent. The fifth-year safety previously spent time with the Giants, Dolphins and 49ers. He recorded nine tackles over six game appearances last season in New York. He made five stops and allowed a touchdown pass Sunday against his old team.

from Boston Herald https://ift.tt/3Dz6jCz