Patriots cut Lynch loose – for now

John Lynch, the nine-time Pro Bowl safety signed by New England two weeks ago, was released Sunday.

“It goes without saying but John is an all-time great safety, one of the league’s classiest professionals and his elite play speaks for itself,” coach Bill Belichick said of Lynch, who turns 37 on Sept. 25. “As has been the case in other situations, I would not rule anything out down the road.”

During their decade-long run of success, the Patriots have regularly signed veterans and often released them, only to sign them again if needed.

Dolphins extend Williams

The Miami Dolphins have signed Ricky Williams to a one-year contract extension through the 2009-10 season.

Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland said the team wanted to keep the 31-year-old running back so “he didn’t become a free agent” after this season.

Around the league

The New York Giants shored up their defensive end position by signing former Philadelphia Eagles first-round pick Jerome McDougle. The Super Bowl champions lost seven-time Pro Bowler Michael Strahan to retirement in June and two-time Pro Bowler Osi Umenyiora with a season-ending knee injury. … The Detroit Lions have signed veteran linebacker Ryan Nece, claimed rookie running back Marcus Thomas and signed former baseball prospect and Dallas Cowboys quarterback Drew Henson.