Patriots Part Ways With Ras-I Dowling, Cut Beleaguered Cornerback
 Things never quite panned out for Dowling here in New England. (FILE:USPresswire) |
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported on Wednesday that the Patriots have released cornerback Ras-I Dowling, ending a disappointing tenure for him here in New England.
The former 2nd round pick in 2011 hasn't been able to stay healthy and has been plagued with injuries during his two seasons in the NFL, spending time the last two years on injured reserve.
Expectations were high for him coming into this season and some thought this would be his chance to finally turn a corner, but he's once again been battling injuries during camp and it appears the Patriots are done waiting for him to finally become a productive player.
The news comes after Dowling had finally returned to be a full participant at practice the last two days, but after not yet playing any of New England's previous three exhibition contests, clearly whatever the coaches saw wasn't enough to give him an opportunity to play tomorrow night.
Bill Belichick has a history of cutting guys early to give them another opportunity to latch on elsewhere, and one has to wonder if that was the case here. Needless to say it will be interesting to see where he lands, or if he has better luck keeping his body healthy in a new setting.
The Patriots are currently preparing to face the New York Giants tomorrow night at Gillette Stadium.
