Chad Ochocinco Released By Patriots
BOSTON (CBS) -- After an afternoon of speculation, news finally came down that the Patriots have released wide receiver Chad Ochocinco.
ESPN's Adam Schefter originally reported the news via Twitter, saying the Patriots spent the day Thursday unsuccessfully trying to trade the 34-year-old receiver.
Later in the afternoon, Ochocinco sent out a tweet of his own on his time with the Patriots:
"Thoroughly enjoyed the oppurtunity to play for the "Patriot" organization... fans were ****ing wicked awesome, I wish all of you the best.."
Earlier in the day, Ochocinco's absence from from Thursday's organized team activities in Foxborough led to heavy speculation that his time in New England has perhaps come to an end.
Several reports noted that Ochocinco did indeed arrive at Gillette Stadium on Thursday morning but left shortly thereafter. Schefter originally reported the departure was for an eye doctor appointment.
Adding to the intrigue, Ochocinco changed his Twitter bio, removing "Patriots WR" from his account, which has nearly 3.5 million followers. After speculation began, though, he quickly added "New England Patriot WR" back to his bio.
Ochocinco faced an uphill battle to make the roster this season, after he caught just 15 passes and one touchdown last year. With Wes Welker, Brandon Lloyd, Jabar Gaffney, Deion Branch, Julian Edelman, Matthew Slater, Donte Stallworth and others under contract, Ochocinco or would have had to prove that his issues with learning the Patriots' offense are behind him. According to Young though, that's not happening.
"Was told recently that physically Ocho still has it but [is] still struggling to grasp Pats playbook," Young tweeted.
