NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS have released a rookie just months after the NFL Draft.
The franchise announced defensive tackle Wilfried Pene has been let go.
Rookie Wilfried Pene has been released by the New England Patriots[/caption]
Head coach Mike Vrabel needs to cut down his roster[/caption]
Pene graduated from Virginia Tech but went undrafted in the NFL Draft.
He was picked up as a free agent by the Patriots but has lasted only a few months.
Pene spent four years at Virginia Tech and played in 47 games, accumulating 73 tackles, 10 TFLs, five sacks, and a pass defended.
Pene was signed through the NFL’s International Pathway Program, as he was born in Tours, France, so he was not holding a roster spot.
New England currently has Christian Barmore, Joshua Farmer, Isaiah Iton, Jeremiah Pharms Jr., Jahvaree Ritzie, and Jaquelin Roy listed on their roster at defensive tackle.
So Pene has been released with the Patriots’ roster now set for a training camp in July.
The Patriots first day of practice is July 23, and between now and then head coach Mike Vrabel and his staff will cut their roster from 90 players down to 53.
The franchise cut David Andrews at the end of last season after ten years of service.
The two-time Super Bowl winner broke down in tears as he announced his retirement.
He said: “For my whole career I’ve been surrounded by the best team anyone could ask for.
“So today, I’d like to show my gratitude for those who sacrificed and helped me.
“First off, I have to thank the good Lord. He’s blessed me with more than I could have asked for and none of this could be possible without him.
“To Mr. Kraft and your family, it’s been an honor to represent your family and brand on and off this field. It’s been more of an honor to get to know you and your family.
“It has been such a joy to grow and love this place and the people here…this is such a special place and I’m proud to call New England home.
“I’m proud to be a part of y’all’s community.”
He featured regularly for the Patriots down the years, playing 124 games in NFL.
