The New England Patriots already have parted ways with linebacker James Morris, just four days after the rookie signed with the team.
The Patriots released Morris, who joined the team as a rookie free agent, on Tuesday with a “failed physical” designation. Morris went undrafted out of Iowa, where he recorded 400 tackles, 10.5 sacks and six interceptions as a three-year starter and senior captain.
Morris was signed Friday in the Patriots’ second wave of undrafted free-agent signings. His release comes as a surprise, since the Patriots already have shallow linebacker depth.
Morris is the second rookie whom the Patriots have quickly released. They also cut tight end Tyler Beck on Thursday, three days after signing him.
Morris played through various injuries during his Iowa career, according to BlackHeartGoldPants.com.
