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Patriots to release 2017 RB starter Mike Gillislee

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- One year after signing running back Mike Gillislee to a two-year, $6.4 million contract as a restricted free agent, the New England Patriots have informed Gillislee of their plans to release him Saturday, a source confirmed.

Gillislee had opened 2017 as the team's No. 1 running back before Dion Lewis seized the job in the sixth week of the season. Gillislee played in nine games last season, totaling 104 carries for 383 yards (3.7 YPG) and five touchdowns.

This year, he was fighting for a roster spot behind locks Rex Burkhead, James White and first-round draft choice Sony Michel.