FOXBORO, Mass. (AP) – The New England Patriots released veteran cornerback Otis Smith, less than three months after re-signing him.

The team offered no explanation for the move Wednesday. Smith, 38, played last season with the Detroit Lions, where he started the final 13 games. He had 59 tackles, an interception and 1.5 sacks.

Smith, a 14-year veteran, was a key contributor during New England’s run to 2002 Super Bowl.

Smith has 525 career tackles, including 5.5 sacks. He has intercepted 29 passes for 645 yards and seven touchdowns.

He originally signed with the Philadelphia Eagles as a rookie free agent in 1990. He spent five seasons with the team before joining the Jets in 1995.

Smith’s interception of St. Louis Rams quarterback Kurt Warner set up a field goal in the 2002 Super Bowl, which New England won 20-17.

Patriots spokesman Stacey James said under team policy, “when we release a player, there is not an explanation given. It’s a player transaction.”