Patriots release Anthony Gonzalez

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The Patriots announced the release of wide receiver Anthony Gonzalez on Tuesday. The 2007 first-round draft choice of the Colts was attempting to revive his career in New England after playing in only 11 games the past three seasons.

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Gonzalez had a run of injuries that limited him after a promising start to his career. Because of that, the one-year contract Gonzalez signed with the Patriots heavily protected the team. He would have earned a base salary of $701,000 if he made the roster, but $368,000 if he landed on injured reserve. Gonzalez also was due a $15,000 workout bonus as part of the deal.

Gonzalez was not present at Thursday's organized team activity that was open to reporters.

On April 10, Gonzalez met with reporters at Gillette Stadium and talked about how the Patriots were the perfect fit for him. His signing represented insurance for the Patriotsm with Wes Welker's contract status up in the air, as Gonzalez did some of his best work out of the slot early in his career.

Julian Edelman and seventh-round draft choice Jeremy Ebert are the other slot receivers on the roster, and veteran Deion Branch also could be a presence inside.

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Mike Reiss

Patriots reporter, ESPNBoston.com

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• Covered Patriots since 1997
• Blogging on Pats since 2004
• Joined ESPNBoston.com in 2009