Patriots release former 2nd-round pick Ron Brace

The New England Patriots have released former second-round draft pick Ron Brace as the team finalizes its 53-man roster before Sunday's Week 17 regular-season finale against the Miami Dolphins.

Via Tom E. Curran of Comcast SportsNet New England:

The Patriots have released defensive tackle Ron Brace, former second-round pick. #patriotstalk

— Tom E. Curran (@tomecurran) December 29, 2012

Brace, a reserve defensive lineman throughout his time in New England, played jut 92 snaps for the team this year, making four tackles in 10 games. He played in 39 regular season games for the Patriots, making seven starts over that time. Brace was scheduled to be a free agent after the season, and it was doubtful he would be back with New England.

The Patriots activated defensive end Jermaine Cunningham, and also promoted two players from their practice squad, wide receiver Kamar Aiken and defensive back Malcolm Williams, in finalizing the 53-man roster for Sunday's contest.

Cunningham finished serving a four-game suspension in Week 16 after violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing drugs.