Kellen Winslow asked to be released by the Patriots

Tight end Kellen Winslow asked the New England Patriots to release him, which the team did on Thursday, reports ESPN.

Winslow played four snaps during the Patriots’ 31-30 loss to the Ravens on Sunday night, catching one pass for 12 yards.

Coach Bill Belichick praised Winslow’s inteligence before the game, saying: “He’s a pretty experienced guy, he’s smart, he’s (played) a lot of football.”

Winslow signed a one-year contract with the Patriots on Sept. 19 after tight end Aaron Hernandez sprained his ankle in the game against Arizona.

The Patriots still have depth at the tight end position despite the loss of Winslow. Rob Gronkowski, Hernandez, Daniel Fells and Michael Hoomanawanui are all on the depth chart.