The Patriots released key special teams contributor and backup LB Dane Fletcher along with WR Britt Davis on Monday. Both have the injury designation so they would revert to injured reserve if they go unclaimed.

The Patriots already have reached an injury settlement with Davis, who injured his left shoulder against the Saints.

Fletcher, who tore his left ACL against the Saints, could be claimed if a team is willing to carry him on the roster until the cutdown to 75 players on Aug. 27.

It's a similar situation to how the Patriots got TE Jake Ballard from the Giants. New York figured he'd get through waivers, but the Patriots jumped in.

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