Anfernee Jennings, Patriots’ longest-tenured player, to reportedly be released

The New England Patriots and their longest-tenured participant will minimize ties after six seasons. Anfernee Jennings, who first joined the staff as a third-round draft decide in 2020, will be released on Wednesday.

Adam Schefter of ESPN was first to report the information.

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Playing school soccer beneath Nick Saban on the University of Alabama, Jennings was chosen 87th general by the Bill Belichick-led Patriots in 2020. Primarily used as a task participant early on, he took a step in his improvement when Pro Bowler Matthew Judon missed a lot of the 2023 season due to damage. Jennings moved right into a beginning position and have become one of many high run-defending outdoors linebackers in soccer.

He returned as a starter the next 12 months beneath new head coach Jerod Mayo, however noticed his position change when Mike Vrabel took over the next 12 months. While his workload elevated because the 12 months went on, Jennings nonetheless ended the season with a defensive taking part in time share of solely 32% — his lowest since 2022.

In complete, he leaves the Patriots with 79 mixed common season and playoff video games on his resume. Jennings recorded 233 tackles, 9.5 sacks and two pressured fumbles and recoveries every.

The 28-year-old, who was getting into the ultimate 12 months of his present contract with a wage cap hit of $4.87 million, is the second edge to depart the Patriots on Wednesday. K’Lavon Chaisson’s departure to the Washington Commanders have been reported simply minutes earlier.

NFL free company and the 2026 league 12 months will begin at 4 pm ET.