Patriots Release Hernandez
Wednesday, June 26th, 2013 -- 10:19 AM
The New England Patriots released tight end Aaron Hernandez today "following his arrest in the investigation of a homicide" last week in North Attleboro, Mass.According to the Associated Press, the Patriots said that, "We realize that law enforcement investigations into this matter are ongoing. We support their efforts and respect the process. At this time, we believe this transaction is simply the right thing to do."
The move came a few hours after Hernandez was taken from his home in handcuffs. He was arrested more than a week after a Boston semi-pro football player was found dead in an industrial park a mile from Hernandez's house.
Odin Lloyd, a 27-year-old semi-pro football player for the Boston Bandits, was found slain June 17. Officials ruled the death a homicide but did not say how Lloyd died.
The loss of Hernandez deprives the Patriots of the second half of one of the league's best tight end tandems. Fellow Pro Bowl selection Rob Gronkowski has had five operations this offseason on his back and broken left forearm.
"Aaron's improved a lot," Patriots coach Bill Belichick said at the time. "He's worked hard, he's improved a lot in all phases of the game ? the passing game, the running game, protection and his overall versatility. He's doing a good job for us."
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