New England Patriots Release WR Michael Jenkins

Jan 5, 2013; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers cornerback Tramon  Williams (38) breaks up the pass intended for Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Michael  Jenkins (84) during the fourth quarter of the NFC Wild Card playoff game at Lambeau Field. The Packers won 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

The New England Patriots have released veteran WR Michael Jenkins today. Jenkins has been slowed with a hamstring injury and that allowed extra opportunities for some youngsters on the roster. Rookie wide receivers Aaron Dobson, Josh Boyce and Kenbrell Thompkins have been impressive in camp and have done enough for Bill Belichick to release their veteran receiver. Those rookies will likely be joining Danny Amendola and Julian Edelman on the Patriots receiving unit.

Jenkins will likely see get action in free agency. With all kinds of players going down with injuries around the league and players like Patrick Crayton signing deals to play, Jenkins should have a team asking for his services in no time. Some teams are really hungry for receiving talent right now.

Jenkins has spent 9 seasons in the league. 7 seasons with the Atlanta Falcons and 2 seasons with the Minnesota Vikings. He signed with the Patriots in the offseason, but the Patriots decided to go with the youth on the roster over the 9-year vet.