The Pats added Purcell as a depth option at the start of camp. They are now getting ahead of the cutdown deadline, starting with Purcell’s release. The veteran defensive lineman appeared in 16 games for the Broncos last year. He logged three pass breakups, five QB hits, and one TFL. Purcell should be able to land on another team after rosters are settled.

Purcell has spent the last five seasons with the Broncos, starting in 37 of the 65 games he appeared in over that span. The veteran lineman is set to enter his ninth season as a pro and is coming off a year in which he totaled 25 tackles and one TFL. He’ll likely serve as added depth along a Patriots line that includes Davon Godchaux and Christian Barmore.

Purcell was set to earn $3.5 million in salary and per-game roster bonuses, according to 9News’ Mike Klis. Now, he’ll earn $2.25 million with an additional $1.25 million available in playtime incentives, which starts at 25 percent of snaps. Purcell totaled 45 tackles and 1.5 sacks for the Broncos last season and has appeared in 13 or more games in three of the last four seasons.

Denver also added outside linebacker Andre Mintze to the list. Purcell is a rotational run-stuffer with one TFL on the year. Mintze, a rookie from Vanderbilt, primarily plays on special teams.