FOXBORO, Mass. (AP) – The New England Patriots released four players, including defensive back Earthwind Moreland who saw significant playing time last season, and hired two assistant coaches.

Moreland, 27, played in nine games and started two at cornerback last season, filling in for injured starters Tyrone Poole and Ty Law. He had 17 total tackles and a fumble recovery.

The Patriots also released defensive lineman Buck Rasmussen, guard Wilbert Brown and tight end Zeron Flemister, none of whom played in a regular-season game last season.

The Super Bowl champions appointed Joel Collier as assistant secondary coach and Harold Nash as assistant strength and conditioning coach.

Collier is entering his 15th season as an NFL coach, including the last 11 with the Miami Dolphins. It is his second stint with the Patriots. He was an assistant coach and scout for the team from 1991 to 1993.

Nash joins the coaching staff after completing an 11-year career as a defensive back in the Canadian Football League.