METAIRIE, La. -- New Orleans Saints general manager Mickey Loomis says the club has cut veteran tight end David Thomas and third-year cornerback Johnny Patrick.
Loomis says releasing Thomas on Tuesday was an "extremely difficult decision," given seven-year veteran's leadership and versatility, which allowed him to fill in at several spots, including fullback.
The 6-foot-3, 248-pound Thomas joined the Saints in a 2009 trade with New England. He missed much of 2011 because of two concussions, but returned in 2012 and played in 15 games, catching 11 passes for 86 yards and four touchdowns.
The 5-11, 191-pound Patrick was New Orleans' second third-round draft choice in 2011 and played in 24 games over two seasons with one start. He was credited with 29 tackles on defense and six on special teams.
