It seems as though every year there is a surprise cut or two from the New England Patriots, and this year is no exception. ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter is reporting that the team will release two veteran outside linebackers, Derrick Burgess and Pierre Woods.

Burgess’ release is a major surprise because he was projected as one of the teams defensive starters this season. Burgess was a major disappointment in his first season with the Patriots last year after the team traded for him during training camp. Burgess missed the beginning of training camp this year due to a personal matter, but was welcomed back by the team when he returned. Burgess has struggled against the run during his time with New England, and hasn’t produced much from a pass rush standpoint either.

Woods made the Patriots roster in 2006 as an undrafted free agent out of Michigan, and has been a key special teams contributor for years with New England. Woods led the team in special teams tackles last season, and is a surprise cut in his own regard. The Patriots could potentially bring back both players in the near future, but at least for now, both are free agents.