The Minnesota Vikings have released core special-teams contributor Tyrone McKenzie, according to a league source.

McKenzie is a 6-foot-2, 245-pound former South Florida standout who has also played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

McKenzie was a third-round draft pick of the New England Patriots in 2009, but suffered a serious knee injury.

Last season for the Vikings, he recorded 12 tackles and one forced fumble.

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Aaron Wilson covers the Ravens for The Baltimore Sun.