Buccaneers release Vinny Curry

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers announced Tuesday that they've released defensive end Vinny Curry.

Curry posted 21 tackles and 2.5 sacks in his first season with Tampa Bay after signing a three-year, $23-million deal (not including incentives) in March 2018. He missed four games with an ankle injury and was replaced by other players on the defensive line as he moved down the depth chart.

Releasing the 30-year-old saves the team $8 million in cap space, according to Over The Cap.

In combination with his high salary, it's possible Curry's departure was influenced by a scheme change. New defensive coordinator Todd Bowles will likely switch to a 3-4 defense.