The New England Patriots have released tight end Alex Silvestro as they pare their roster down to 53, according to Christopher Price of WEEI.com.

Alex Silvestro has been released, per a league source, but appears bound for the practice squad.

— Christopher Price (@cpriceNFL) August 31, 2012

Silvestro, who played at Rutgers, was signed as an undrafted free agent in 2011. He appeared in one game for the Patriots last season and was on the roster for the Super Bowl. Silvestro played on the defensive line in college, but was converted in New England's tight end-happy offensive system.

With Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez both signing long-term contract extensions, tight end is a tough place to breakthrough on this Patriots team. Silvestro will have to make good use of the reps he gets on the practice squad.

The deadline to have rosters trimmed to 53 is 9 p.m. ET.

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