Patriots release TE Chandler, WR LaFell


Dec 20, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Brandon LaFell (19) runs the ball against the Tennessee Titans in the second half at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Titans 33-16. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 20, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Brandon LaFell (19) runs the ball against the Tennessee Titans in the second half at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Titans 33-16. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

The New England Patriots released tight end Scott Chandler and wide receiver Brandon LaFell on Wednesday in moves that will result in salary cap savings of approximately $4 million.

Chandler signed last March with the Patriots as a free agent and played in 15 games, starting four, during the regular season. He had 23 receptions for 259 yards and four touchdowns, mainly as the team’s No. 3 tight end.

The 30-year-old veteran also has played for the San Diego Chargers, New York Giants, Dallas Cowboys and Buffalo Bills in eight NFL seasons. He has 205 career receptions for 2,379 yards and 21 touchdowns.

LaFell joined the Patriots as an unrestricted free agent in 2014. He started seven games and played in only 11 in 2015 because of a foot injury. He had 37 receptions for 515 yards during the regular season and added three catches for 6 yards in the playoffs.

The 29-year-old has 278 career receptions for 3,852 yards and 20 touchdowns in six NFL seasons. He ended last season with the Patriots as their No. 4 wide receiver.