Bills release starting tight end Chandler

Scott-Chandler

Buffalo Bills tight end Scott Chandler (84) catches a pass between New England Patriots outside linebacker Jamie Collins (91) and defensive end Rob Ninkovich (50). (Charles Krupa/AP)

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — The Buffalo Bills have released starting tight end Scott Chandler.

The team announced the decision in a short release issued Wednesday.

Chandler led Buffalo’s tight ends in catches and yards in each of the past four seasons, including last year when he had 47 receptions for 497 yards. He has 17 touchdowns in 65 career games with the Bills. Chandler scored six times in both 2011 and ’12 to match the franchise’s single-season record for TDs by a tight end.

Chandler ranks third among Bills tight ends in touchdowns and 182 catches. The Bills are retooling the position after allowing veteran Lee Smith to leave in free agency.

Buffalo is preparing a contract offer to sign Dolphins tight end Charles Clay, though Miami has retained the right to match it.

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