The Patriots will release OLB Tully Banta-Cain on Tuesday afternoon, according to multiple media outlets. ESPN's Adam Schefter was the first to tweet the news.

Banta-Cain, who recently underwent abdominal surgery that would sideline him for the next four to six weeks, turns 31 next month. He has been a productive player for New England in recent years, registering a combined 14.5 sacks in 2009 and '10.

The way we see it

Pass rusher is an area the Patriots were expected to address in free agency, so it is a bit of a surprise to see them cut a player who has demonstrated he can contribute in that department. Banta-Cain could return at a lower salary, though the Bill Belichick way is to replace high-priced vets with cheaper and younger players.