Patriots Release DT Mike Pennel in Surprising Training Camp Cut
By Mark Powell
Roster cuts are upon us, and the first surprising move at New England Patriots camp was made early Monday morning.
DT Mike Pennel, a projected starter at one point this offseason, has been released by the team, opening up an obvious void on the defensive line.
The Patriots have informed veteran DT Mike Pennel that they are releasing him, per a source.
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) August 26, 2019
The 28-year-old signed a two-year contract in March, but failed to contribute much in training camp. In fact, Pennel found himself taking fourth quarter snaps in the Patriots' three preseason games, which was certainly a sign of things to come.
By releasing the Colorado State-Pueblo product, New England will incur $500,000 in dead money, which makes this decision all the more surprising from Bill Belichick and Co. Evidently, they had no use for the 330-pound behemoth.
Surprising release from the #Patriots, letting go of former #Jets, #Packers DL Mike Pennel.
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) August 26, 2019
He signed a 2-year deal with them in free-agency. https://t.co/jwbxv6t04R
Pennel had been in a fight for a Patriots roster spot with the likes of Byron Cowart, Danny Shelton, Lawrence Guy, Adam Butler, David Parry and Ufomba Kamalu. Now, the notorious run-stuffer must find a new NFL home elsewhere.