Buccaneers release Josh McCown

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have released quarterback Josh McCown. 

The news was announced on Wednesday on the team's official website.

McCown was signed prior to the 2014 season after having some success with the Chicago Bears in relief of Jay Cutler in 2013. He had one year remaining on his contract.

The move clears over $4 million in cap space for the Bucs and seemingly points to the team selecting a quarterback with the first overall pick in April's draft.

Although McCown's time in Tampa was brief and disappointing, he now bolsters a thin free-agent quarterback class that includes veterans Brian Hoyer, Mark Sanchez and Ryan Mallett.

McCown started 11 games in 2014, throwing for 2,206 yards, 11 touchdowns and 14 interceptions.