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The Patriots will be getting a bump to their salary cap number as of Friday afternoon. That increase is due to a move that's ‘been in the works’ for over two months.

On Friday, the team officially processed the retirement of long-time safety Devin McCourty. McCourty announced his retirement back in March.

By waiting until after the June 1 deadline to process McCourty's retirement, the Patriots were able to spread his dead cap hit over multiple seasons. He’ll now carry a $3.5 million cap hit in 2023, and a $6.2 million hit in 2024.

According to Patriots salary cap expert Miguel BenzanPatriots salary cap expert Miguel Benzan, this opens up $225,000 in cap space for the team. That's because McCourty's salary isn't entirely removed from the number. During the offseason, the 51 highest-paid players on a team's 90-man roster count towards the cap. Joshuah Bledsoe replaces McCourty in the equation.

The move was one of two the team made on Friday to open up a roster spot. They also released UDFA defensive tackle Justus Tavai, who was signed just before OTAs began. That leaves the Patriots with 88 players on their 90-man roster.

Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at [email protected].