The New England Patriots released Adrian Clayborn after one season, the defensive end announced Friday.

Clayborn had one year remaining on his contract, but he asked to become a free agent.

The veteran defender was a key cog in the Patriots' front-four rotation, accumulating 2.5 sacks and helping the team capture Super Bowl LIII.

A first-round pick of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2011, Clayborn also played two seasons for the Atlanta Falcons.