The Miami Dolphins released linebacker Kyle Van Noy after one season, a league source confirmed to the Globe.
The ex-Patriot, in a statement to NFL Network, said he had expected to stay in Miami longer.
“I am surprised and disappointed in their decision,” said Van Noy. “As a captain, I gave my all to the team. I fought through a painful hip injury during the season, including spending time in the hospital after a game. I was brought there to be a leader and I know my teammates looked up to and respected me.”
Van Noy left the Patriots as a free agent after the 2019 season, and New England struggled to find his replacement during a disappointing 7-9 2020 season.
Advertisement
ESPN’s Cameron Wolfe said the move saves Miami about $9.75 million in cap space. Van Noy signed a four-year, $51 million contract last offseason.
The McCourty twins, Devin and Jason, quote-tweeted a report on Van Noy’s release and added two eye emojis above a photo of Van Noy in a Patriots uniform.
👀👀@KVN_03 https://t.co/o6VSP3bgtJ pic.twitter.com/zfG1OQmwa6
— Devin&Jason McCourty (@McCourtyTwins) March 2, 2021
Last season, Van Noy tied for third among non-defensive linemen in total pressures (28) and registered 69 tackles and six sacks.
Jim McBride can be reached at james.mcbride@globe.com. Follow him on Twitter @globejimmcbride.