Redskins release unproductive wide receiver Patten

ASHBURN, Va. -- David Patten was cut by the Washington Redskins on Thursday after catching just 23 passes over two seasons.

The Redskins released Patten with three years remaining on the five-year, $13 million contract he signed as a free agent from New England in 2005. Patten felt ready to assume a lead role after years as part of an ensemble receiving corps with the Patriots, but he was never able to live up to his own billing.

Patten caught 22 passes in nine games in 2005 before knee surgery ended his season in November. In 2006, he caught just one pass for 25 yards, having fallen behind Santana Moss, Brandon Lloyd and Antwaan Randle El on the depth chart.

The 32-year-old receiver also has played for the New York Giants and Cleveland in his 10 NFL seasons.