Leonard Johnson Released by Patriots: Latest Comments and Reaction

Leonard Johnson's stint with the New England Patriots proved to be a short one.

After latching on with the AFC East champions in early December, the club released the defensive back Wednesday, according to the Patriots' official website.

In four appearances with the Patriots, Johnson tallied eight solo tackles while defending three passes. For his career, the undrafted free agent has amassed 118 tackles, five interceptions and two pick-sixes over the course of four seasons.

With the Patriots pressed for help in the secondary following a slew of injuries, Johnson was thrust into a starting role after the Tampa Bay Buccaneers cut him.

Right off the bat, the Iowa State product impressed. In his first game against the Houston Texans, Johnson started in the slot and allowed a single catch for minus-one yards, according to NESN.com's Doug Kyed.

Johnson also recorded two passes defended and subsequently drew praise from head coach Bill Belichick for his play. His celebratory dance moves, though, remained a work-in-progress, according to MassLive.com's Kevin Duffy:

Johnson's play declined from that point on, but the solid single-game showing could bode well for his prospects now that he's set to hit the open market.

As for the Patriots, Kyed noted New England has a mere three cornerbacks on the roster. Malcolm Butler, Logan Ryan and Darryl Roberts comprise a solid trio, but there's a clear need for the front office to explore additions in the draft or free agency.