Patriots Release John Lynch... For Now

When the Patriots signed John Lynch a few weeks ago, it wouldn't have been crazy to think that the Patriots found themselves a useful role player that could contribute something positive for ten-or-so snaps a game.

After all, it wouldn't have been the first time the Patriots picked up a once-great player off the scrap heap and found something they could use, much as they did with Corey Dillon, Rodney Harrison, and Junior Seau. Only natural to assume they would hit on another one with Lynch.

Turns out, that's not happening. At least not right now. The Patriots today released the former pro-bowler, according to the Patriots blog at the Boston Herald. However, Head Coach Bill Belichick isn't ruling out Lynch returning to the team at a later date.

Here's what Belichick offered on Lynch: "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. As has been the case in other situations, I would not rule anything out down the road.

Lynch echoed a similar sentiment, as quoted from the same article:

Lynch, who had signed a one-year deal, also hinted at the thought he could be back: "I have no regrets about my time thus far with the Patriots. 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."

Interesting. For now, with Lynch gone and Tank Williams out for the season, the Patriots will enter the season with Rodney Harrison, Brandon Meriweather and James Sanders at the safety position. Of course, it might not be much of an issue over the first month of the season as three of the Patriots first four opponents are the Chiefs, Dolphins and 49ers. Not exactly a group of teams that will be testing your depth in the secondary.

Lynch only played in two preseason games with the Patriots and was being used, at least somewhat, in a hybrid linebacker/safety position in the teams nickel defense. He's 36 and hasn't intercepted a pass since week 11 of the 2005 season.