Mohamed Sanu Reacts to Patriots Releasing Him: ‘I Personally Think It Was a Money Thing'

Sanu reacts to Pats releasing him: 'I personally think it was a money thing' originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

Mohamed Sanu's career with the New England Patriots is over.

The Patriots are releasing the 31-year-old wide receiver, as NFL Media's Ian Rapoport first reported Wednesday night.

Veteran reporter Josina Anderson spoke to Sanu after the news broke, and he had the following reaction:

Just spoke with WR Mohamed Sanu on his release from the #Patriots. He told me coach Belichick called him to the facility for a brief chat: "He told me it wasn't going to work out, which I respect. I personally think it was a money thing. I still want to play where I'm valued."

— IG: JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) September 2, 2020

The Patriots will open $5.75 million in salary cap space with Sanu's release, per Miguel Benzan (@patscap on Twitter).

Sanu was acquired by the Patriots in a trade with the Atlanta Falcons last October. New England paid the steep price of a 2020 second-round draft pick to bring in Sanu.

The veteran wideout played in eight games for the Patriots and tallied just 26 receptions for 207 yards and one touchdown. An ankle injury suffered during a Week 11 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles limited his effectiveness late in the 2019 season.

Sanu, if healthy, should still be able to contribute for an NFL team. Week 1 of the 2020 season is set to begin Thursday, Sept. 10.