In a surprising roster move on Monday afternoon, the Patriots have released defensive lineman Brandon Deaderick.
The 25-year-old Deaderick, who joined the Patriots as a 2010 seventh-round draft pick, played in 14 games and started five for New England last season.
There’s no word on what led the Patriots to decide to release Deaderick, but the move was not expected. Deaderick is young and has been relatively productive, and his contract makes him an inexpensive member of the roster. Guys like that usually don’t get cut in May.
The Patriots also confirmed that they have signed veteran free agent offensive lineman Tyronne Green and rookie free agent R.J. Mattes, and that they have released receiver Andre Holmes.