Browns release LB following charges

Cleveland Browns linebacker Mychal Kendricks was released by the NFL team late Wednesday night, hours after he was charged by federal prosecutors in Philadelphia with insider trading.

Kendricks, who signed a one-year contract with the Browns in June after winning a Super Bowl title last season with the Eagles, allegedly used tips from an acquaintance to make about $1.2 million in illegal profits on four major trading deals, federal prosecutors said.

The 27-year-old issued a statement earlier in the day admitting to his guilt and apologizing. He expressed regret and accepted “full responsibility” for his actions.

Dumervil retires: Pass rusher Elvis Dumervil is retiring from the NFL after 12 years.

Dumervil entered the league as a fourth-round draft pick by Denver in 2006. He spent seven years with the Broncos, four more with Baltimore and finished his career last year with San Francisco. He finished his career with 105½ sacks.

Patriots: Rob Gronkowski’s agent says the Patriots star is the NFL’s highest paid tight end after New England reworked his contract to add $4.3 million this season.

Agent Drew Rosenhaus said Thursday that Gronkowski’s deal for the next two seasons adds $1 million in per game bonuses and $3.3 million in incentives for things like catches, playing time and touchdowns.