...I'm only kidding. The New England Patriots cut WR Chad Ochocinco today. They've tried negotiating with other teams about a trade before the transaction deadline at the end of the day, which was set at 4 p.m. Unfortunately, not enough interest was struck up to make a deal.
Ochocinco did tweet this upon hearing the news: "Thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to play for the 'Patriot' organization... fans were f***** wicked awesome, I wish you all the best..." (Schefter, Adam)
The biggest problem for New England wasn't the former Bengals' ability, but instead his lack of interest in learning the plays. When Ochocinco left the training facility early before OTAs on Thursday, it sparked rumors that his days as a Pat were numbered. The 34-year-old replied by saying that "he was going to an eye doctor's appointment."
Chad Ochocinco is known worldwide for his touchdown shenanigans every time he scores a touchdown in a game. From playing golf by putting the football with the plane to "proposing" to a Ben-gals cheerleader to his Ochocinco Hall of Fame jacket, people just can't get enough of the six-time Pro Bowler. He's appeared on Dancing With The Stars (He was eliminated from the final four contestants). He's made "The List", which is comprised of all the defensive backs that have successfully covered him. He has his own catchphrase: "Child, please". If you truly want to know what this means, Google "Sports Soup" and "Chad Ochocinco" and see what you get. He even had his own reality TV show on VH1 called Ochocinco: The Ultimate Catch.
Anyways, Ochocinco had career lows in touchdowns, receptions and receiving yards in his only year with the Patriots. Chad only amassed 15 receptions for 276 yards and a touchdown. He was getting paid over $6 million for last season, but he agreed to restructure his contract for 2012. He lowered his base salary from the $3 million he was due for this season down to $925,000. This only ensured himself a short-term roster spot, though. New England added Brandon Lloyd, Jabar Gaffney, Donte Stallworth and Anthony Gonzalez to their wide receiving corps. In fact, Deion Branch agreed to a one-year deal to return while Wes Welker received the franchise tag. These transactions pushed Ochocinco so far down the depth charts that many observers weren't surprised at all by his release.
Now the question is, where will he go? The Dolphins could at least provide newly drafted QB Ryan Tannehill a veteran target. Philip Rivers could feed him deep passes all day in San Diego. Hell, maybe Rex Ryan could use another receiver for Mark Sanchez and the Jets. Whoever picks up Ochocinco better get their popcorn ready. Oh wait, that's a different wide receiver...
