METAIRIE, La. (AP) - Linebacker and special teams captain Troy Evans has been released by the New Orleans Saints.

The move came as the Saints struggled to cover kicks and punts in their firs two preseason games.

The Saints have given up three kickoff returns of more than 50 yards, and a 40-yard punt return.

Evans says the mistakes bothered him and motivated the Saints to work longer and harder on special teams fundamentals this week.

Special teams coordinator Greg McMahon says showing improvement on kick coverage in Friday night's exhibition game against San Diego will be important both for the team and for young players - and apparently, veterans too - trying to make the final cut in early September.