Patriots Release Offensive Lineman R.J. Mattes, Leaving Open Roster Spot

R.J. Mattes should be used to this by now.

The New England Patriots released the second-year offensive lineman for the third time on Wednesday. Mattes originally was signed by the Patriots as an undrafted free agent out of North Carolina State on May 13, 2013. He was released May 23, re-signed June 3 and released again on Aug. 24 before being re-signed Dec. 30.

Releasing Mattes leaves an open spot on the Patriots’ 90-man roster, opening speculation that the Patriots could add a veteran free agent. The Patriots have shown interest in tight ends Dustin Keller and Jermichael Finley and defensive tackle Kevin Williams.