PATRIOTS 101

The New England Patriots have apparently cut loose veteran cornerback Leigh Bodden. The move was confirmed by Bodden's agent Alvin Keels, but not the Patriots.

"He's enjoyed this time in New England, but after meeting with Coach (Bill) Belichick this morning, both parties agreed it was time to move on," said Keels. "Leigh still has a strong desire to play football and welcomes his opportunity to compete for a Super Bowl. Leigh is totally healthy and can contribute right away."

For their part, the Patriots were typically non-committal about Bodden's release. When asked about Bodden's play this season at his Friday morning press conference, Belichick tersely replied, "I think we'll skip that one right now."

Bodden's health has been a serious question over the past two seasons. He was acquired prior to the 2009 season and turned in an acceptable performance highlighted by five interceptions. It was a strong enough performance to merit a four-year contract from the Patriots which he signed in March of 2010. He spent the entire 2010 season on Injured Reserve with a shoulder injury. This season, Bodden has been battling a thumb injury and has appeared in five games (one start) as the team's third cornerback. He's been credited with 17 tackles, four passes defended and no interceptions.

Because the trade deadline has passed, before Bodden can claim free agent status, he must first clear waivers. Should he not play for anyone for the rest of the season, he will be eligible to collect termination pay from the Patriots equal to the remaining pro-rated portion of his $3.9 million base salary.

The Patriots who have the worst overall defense as well as the worst pass defense, now have Ras-I Dowling, Devin McCourty, Kyle Arrington, Antwaun Molden and Phillip Adams as the cornerbacks currently on the roster.

Tags: Football, Leigh Bodden, New England, New England Patriots, NFL

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