McCrary started three games for New England in 2003 before suffering a season-ending
knee injury. He appeared in both preseason games this year, and went 2 for 15
yards rushing and 1 for 4 yards receiving. McCrary's release coincides with
the emergence of Dan Klecko as a potential FB backup.
The New England Patriots waived rookie tight end Andy Mignery. Mignery, was
signed by the team as an undrafted free agent on May 2, 2004. His release became
imminent after the Patriots were able to come to terms with 1st round draft
choice, Ben Watson TE from Georgia.
Mignery's release, leaves just 3 healthy TE's on the roster, Ben Watson, Christian Fauria and Daniel Graham. Zeron Flemeister, who was the other TE was placed
on injured reserve after suffering a season ending leg injury during camp.
The defending Super Bowl champions, the New England Patriots, have released
wide receiver JJ Stokes on Thursday. Stokes was originally signed by the Patriots
on Nov. 18, 2003 and was re-signed by New England as an unrestricted free agent
on March 3, 2004. His performance during camp has been reported as one of a
big receiver with good hands who could provide versatility in the red zone.
Other observations indicate that rookie receiver Chas Gessner, who continues
to work with the QBs after practice, will be the one to take the roster spot
that Stokes could have occupied.
The team's roster now stands at 79 players, including those carrying NFL Europe
roster exemptions.
Here's the important dates for Roster Cuts:
August 31: Roster cut to maximum of 65 players.
September 5: Roster cut to maximum of 53 players.
September 9-13: Opening weekend of 2004 season.
October 19: Trading deadline.