New England Patriots practice squad linebacker Tyrone McKenzie has asked for and received his release, ESPNBoston.com's Mike Reiss reports.

McKenzie, a third-round pick in 2009, is expected to pursue opportunities with another team.

The 97th overall pick in the '09 draft, McKenzie torn an ACL during mini-camp and spent his entire rookie season on injured reserve. McKenzie had 19 tackles and a fumble recovery during the 2010 pre-season, but with the team well-supplied at inside linebacker, he was unable to crack the 53-man roster.

New England signed McKenzie to the practice squad in Week 1, where the former South Florida star had been earning over $8,800 per week, $3,600 above the weekly minimum practice squad salary ($5,200).

Though he was injured prior to signing his contract, the Patriots were quite fair with McKenzie in terms of his rookie contract. Despite knowing he would not be available last season, McKenzie received a $631,000 signing bonus, which was in-line with his draft slot. McKenzie also received an elevated split, earning $25,000 more last season than the Patriots were obligated to compensate him.

McKenzie did not receive it, but he was eligible to earn a $100,000 bonus with minimal playing time in 2010-12.