PATRIOTS LOOKING TO CUT TIES WITH TROY BROWN

The Patriots are prepared to part ways with wide receiver Troy Brown, as the team is not planning to offer its all-time leader in receptions a contract for the 2008 season.

A published report out Boston said the team, out of courtesy to Brown, informed the 15-year veteran, who is a free agent, that he was not in their immediate plans and that if he was interested in returning for a 16th NFL season he was free to field offers from other teams.

Patriots spokesman Stacey James declined to confirm the report, citing team policy.

Brown played last year under a one-year deal for the veteran minimum base salary of $820,000, $435,000 of which was guaranteed. He also had a $40,000 signing bonus. The veteran minimum deal this year is $830,000.