Patriots release rookie DB Ameer Speed

The New England Patriots, who have 20 players on Thursday's injury report, released rookie defensive back Ameer Speed.

The Patriots (1-5) selected Speed in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft out of Michigan State. He previously played at Georgia.

Speed is the first player in the Patriots' 2023 draft class to be cut. Speed, 24, played in five games this season, totaling two tackles on defense and one on special teams. He has played 10 defensive snaps and 73 on special teams.

Speed was at the team practice Thursday, according to an ESPN report, so he could be signed to the practice squad if he clears waivers.

The Patriots, who host the Buffalo Bills (4-2) on Sunday, listed five players not participating because of injuries, and 15 more as limited participants.

Running back Rhamondre Stevenson (ankle) was removed from the injury report Thursday and upgraded to a full participant after being limited on Wednesday.

Not participating Thursday were cornerback Jonathan Jones (knee), tight end Hunter Henry (ankle), offensive lineman Riley Reiff (knee), linebacker Josh Uche (knee/foot) and defensive lineman Keion White (concussion).

Among the limited participants were center David Andrews (ankle), defensive lineman Trey Flowers (foot) and wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (concussion).