Patriots release CB Leigh Bodden.

The New England Patriots have released Leigh Bodden, according to players in the team’s locker room who were informed of the cornerback’s departure Friday morning.

Asked about the report at his Friday morning news conference, coach Bill Belichick said the team did not have an announcement at that time. Later asked about Bodden's play this season, Belichick said "I think we'll skip that one right now."

Bodden had been battling a thumb injury this season, and was listed as limited in practice this week with the injury.

Since Bodden's release comes after the trade deadline, he will have to pass through waivers before becoming a free agent. Unless Bodden is claimed by another team, he will be eligible to collect termination pay from the Patriots equal to the remaining prorated portion of his $3.9 million base salary.

The move comes one day after rookie cornerback Ras-I Dowling (hip) did not practice for the first time this week. Without Bodden, the Patriots have Devin McCourty, Kyle Arrington, Dowling, Antwaun Molden, and Phillip Adams on their roster at cornerback.