The New England Patriots released Shawn Springs on Tuesday, but the veteran cornerback told NFL Network insider Jason La Canfora that he isn't thinking about retirement.
Springs, 35, has considered options outside of football in the past, but he said he wants to continue playing if possible, writing in a text message to La Canfora: "I'm not retiring!!!"
There already has been some interest in Springs, a league source told La Canfora on Tuesday. However, the Boston Heraldreported Wednesday that Springs recently failed a physical, prompting his release by the Patriots.
Springs played sparingly in New England last season after he signed a three-year, $10.5 million contract, appearing in 12 games and finishing with 40 tackles and one interception. According to the Herald, Springs struggled with a knee injury all season and had surgery on it.
Springs confirmed the surgery during an interview with the Boston Globe, but he denied that motivated the Patriots to cut him. He cited the team's desire to use younger players as the reason.
The Patriots drafted Rutgers cornerback Devin McCourty in the first round of last month's draft and re-signed veteran cornerback Leigh Bodden, making Springs expendable. New England also has Darius Butler, a second-round pick last season, and third-year pro Jonathan Wilhite.
Springs, a 13-year NFL veteran, also has played for the Seattle Seahawks and Washington Redskins. He made the Pro Bowl after the 1998 season.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
