The New England Patriots have released veteran kicker Stephen Gostkowski, according to Jim McBride of The Boston Globe.
This is an unfortunate but necessary move for the Patriots. Releasing Stephen Gostkowski - who had hip surgery this past season and missed 13 games including the playoffs - saves New England $2.6 million towards the cap, per BSJ's Miguel Benzan, which is much needed cap relief for a team still trying to add players in free agency.
Gostkowski is the Patriots' all-time leader in points scored (1,775). He has been with New England since 2006, which is when the team and future hall of fame kicker Adam Vinatieri parted ways.