Eagles release DT Patterson
The Philadelphia Eagles announced Monday that they released defensive tackle Mike Patterson.
Patterson has spent his entire eight-year NFL career with the Eagles and was the team's longest-tenured player.
Patterson, 29, was diagnosed with an arteriovenous malformation in his brain that caused him to suffer a seizure in training camp during August of 2011.
He returned to play in 15 games that season, but was limited to just five games in 2012 after having brain surgery for the condition in January of 2012.
"Mike Patterson is one of the toughest players I have ever been around in the National Football League," Eagles general manager Howie Roseman said in a statement. "He has overcome many obstacles throughout his career and I have the upmost respect for him because of it.
"Coach (Chip) Kelly and I each had great conversations with him today. He is a class act. He gave this organization eight great seasons of hard work and dedication and we wish him all the best as he continues his career in this league."
Patterson, 29, had 551 tackles, 16.5 sacks, four forced fumbles and seven fumble recoveries in 115 games (99 starts).
"I want to thank the fans for all of their support over eight years in Philadelphia," Patterson said in a statement. "It is never easy to say goodbye to a fan base that supported me no matter what.
"My goal was to come to work every day to try and make the Philadelphia Eagles the best organization we could be. The Eagles organization has treated me and my family with nothing but respect since the day I was drafted and I wish (owner) Mr. (Jeffrey) Lurie, (general manager) Howie (Roseman), the new coaches and all of my teammates all the best going forward. I will miss them all and I will always have a place in my heart for the Eagles and for the city of Philadelphia."
Patterson owns the franchise record for the longest fumble return for a touchdown with a 98-yarder at the San Francisco 49ers in 2006.
