Updated

San Diego, CA (SportsNetwork.com) - The San Diego Chargers cut loose three veteran players Tuesday in an effort to clear salary cap space, releasing cornerbacks Derek Cox and Johnny Patrick along with fullback Le'Ron McClain.

Cox, signed to a four-year, $20 million contract as an unrestricted free agent last March, was a disappointment in his lone season in San Diego. The former Jacksonville Jaguar lost his starting job in midseason and managed just 38 tackles and one interception in 16 regular-season games.

The five-year pro's $4.25 million base salary for 2014 would have been fully guaranteed if he remained on the roster by March 13.

McClain was entering the final season of a three-year deal he signed with San Diego in 2012 and saw a limited offensive role this past year, recording 32 yards on 11 carries and a pair of receptions.

Patrick registered 38 tackles, one interception and 1 1/2 sacks in 13 games (4 starts) last season prior to landing on injured reserve with an ankle issue. The 25-year-old was claimed off waivers by San Diego from the New Orleans Saints last February.