Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald reports that the Patriots are expected to release veteran Sebastian Vollmer by the start of free agency, with retirement remaining "a possibility."

As the reports increase of Vollmer's retirement, Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald tweeted this week that Vollmer's hip is in bad shape. The team will reportedly be releasing him by the start of free agency.

The Patriots announced the release of Sebastian Vollmer on Friday, ending the veteran's tenure in New England.