FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- The New England Patriots waived No. 4 cornerback/special teamer Rashaan Melvin on Tuesday, while also releasing tight end Joseph Fauria off the practice squad.
Melvin played in eight games for the Patriots after joining them Oct. 14 when he was claimed him on waivers after the Baltimore Ravens released him. Melvin played 45 defensive snaps, struggling a bit in extended action Nov. 15 against the Giants in the second half when he replaced injured No. 3 cornerback Justin Coleman.
But he came up with a few notable plays on special teams, most recently recovering an onside kick in the fourth quarter of Sunday's 35-28 loss to the Eagles.
Melvin's release reflects how Coleman, who has missed the last three games, is on the cusp of a return. Also, the team worked out free-agent cornerback Leonard Johnson on Monday, and he is an option to consider if the team fills the open roster spot at the same position.
As for the likable Fauria, he had joined the practice squad on Nov. 18. His release is likely a case of the team looking for depth at other positions on the practice squad.