Dimitri Patterson released by Dolphins

As free agency gets ready to begin tomorrow, many teams are preparing by adding salary cap room through relasing veteran players. The Miami Dolphins did that today with the release of cornerback Dimitri Patterson.

The move saves the Dolphins $5.4 million against the cap, moving them to a little over $40 million under the limit - money they can use to once again have a large free agent spending season.

Releasing Patterson, who was only able to play four games last year due to injury, was not unexpected. Miami re-signed starter Brent Grimes earlier this offseason and are said to want Nolan Carroll back as well. It appears Carroll is looking to test the free agent market, however. The Dolphins could be considering second year players Jamar Taylor and Will Davis for the starting position opposite Grimes next year. Safety/nickel cornerback Jimmy Wilson could also be in the cornerback competition, especially if the Dolphins address the safety position in free agency or the NFL Draft in May.

Miami could also re-sign Patterson to a lesser deal. His playmaking ability makes him worth the risk of continuing injuries, if his price tag is a lot lower than the $5.4 million he was set to earn.