FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- John Lynch, the nine-time Pro Bowl safety signed by the New England 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 may be in that category. He has played 15 seasons, 11 in Tampa Bay and four in Denver.
"I have no regrets about my time thus far with the Patriots," Lynch said in a statement released by the club. "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."
New England signed Lynch after he was released by Denver early in training camp.
The Patriots also cut Chad Jackson, their second-round draft pick in 2006 from Florida. The wide receiver from Florida has been plagued by injuries, had 13 catches as a rookie and none last season when he played in only two games.
During the exhibition season, Jackson had seven catches for 66 yards and two touchdowns. His release could be a sign that Wes Welker, who missed the last exhibition game with a rib injury, is healthy enough to play in the season opener Sunday against Kansas City
The Patriots also signed six players to the practice squad -- defensive lineman Titus Adams, safety Mark Dillard, running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis, linebacker Vince Redd and defensive backs Mike Richardson and Antwain Spann.
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