Miami Dolphins release Brice McCain and Quinton Coples

Ravens wide receiver Kamar Aiken (11) can't catch a pass under pressure from Miami Dolphins cornerback Brice McCain.The Miami Dolphins have begun the process of purging salaries, clearing way for the offseason spending that will likely begin in March.

According to league sources the team informed cornerback Brice McCain, who started 11 games last season, and reserve pass rusher Quinton Coples, a 2012 first-round pick the Dolphins claimed off the waiver wire late last year, that both defensive players will be released.

The transaction hasn't been finalized as of Friday afternoon, but their releases are merely a formality, and just one of nearly a half-dozen moves the Dolphins front office…