The New England Patriots are releasing tight end Dwayne Allen, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. The Patriots have informed Allen of their decision, and there is a chance they sign him back on a cheaper deal.

Allen played in 13 games this past season, catching three passes for 27 yards. He spent the last two years in New England, and in 2017, he logged 10 catches for 86 yards and a touchdown.

The 29-year-old, who played his collegiate football at Clemson University, was originally selected by the Indianapolis Colts in the third round (64th pick overall) of the 2012 NFL Draft.

He started all 16 contests during his rookie campaign and was very impressive, hauling in 45 receptions for 521 yards and three scores. The following year, Allen played in just one game due to a hip injury.

The Fayetteville, N.C. native then returned in 2014, snaring 29 balls for 395 yards while reaching the end zone eight times in 13 games.

Allen then had a quiet 2015 campaign, finishing with just 16 catches for 109 yards and a touchdown, but he rebounded nicely the following season, totaling 35 receptions for 406 yards and six scores.

Since leaving the Colts, Allen's production has dipped significantly, as he was more of a blocker than a pass-catcher in the Patriots' offense.

Still, Allen has a track record of being a decent receiver, so perhaps another team will give him an opportunity.

The Patriots, of course, won their sixth Super Bowl last month, defeating the Los Angeles Rams by a score of 13-3. All six of their titles have come since Tom Brady took over at quarterback in 2001.