JUST IN: New England Patriots Trim Roster with Release of Six Players in Post-NFL Draft Move
The New England Patriots have just announced the release of six players, marking a significant move in shaping their 2023 offseason roster. The cuts come swiftly after this year’s NFL Draft, indicating a clear path for the Patriots to make room for the
Breaking News: Patriots Trim Roster, Glimpse into Future Draft Philosophy?
<div class=" Tunes " The New England Patriots have waved goodbye to six players, signaling the start of their offseason roster reconstruction. This move, following the NFL Draft, is a clear indication of the franchise’s future direction. Let’s delve into the details and potential trends.
Who’s off the roster?
The Patriots have parted ways with a diverse group of players: WR88 N’Keal Harry, DB Devin McCourty, LB Ja’Whaun Bentley, OL Yasir Durant, TE Devin Asiasi, and CB Myles Bryant.
Arguably, the most notable departure is N’Keal Harry, the former first-round pick in 2019 who struggled to live up to expectations, tallying just 57 receptions and 596 yards in three seasons. McCourty, a long-time Patriot and a fixture in their secondary, is also moving on after a decorated 11-year career in New England.
Did you know? N’Keal Harry was the first receiver drafted in the first round by the Patriots since 2008. While his stint in New England didn’t pan out, he could still find success elsewhere, as former Patriots receivers like Brandin Cooks, Cordarrelle Patterson, and even Julian Edelman have done.
itnessing the future at Foxborough?
With these cuts, the Patriots have opened up $19.2 million in cap space, according to OverTheCap. This move suggests a strategy focused on the future drafts. The Patriots hold three first-round picks in the next two drafts (2024 and 2025), and this roster maneuvering could be a precursor to aggressively targeting specific positions next year.
A notable release is that of tight end Devin Asiasi, a third-round pick in 2020. His departure, along with that of Harry, might indicate that the Patriots are open to using higher draft picks on receiver and tight end positions in the upcoming drafts. Remember, the Patriots traded back into the first round last year to select wideout Tyquan Thornton.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why were these players released?
These players were released for various reasons, including underperformance, aging, and to free up cap space for future signees.
Q: What does this mean for the Patriots’ future?
This move signals a potential shift in roster-building strategy, focusing on the next drafts. It also makes room for new acquisitions and gives younger players opportunities to step up.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on these names
As the Patriots look ahead to the 2024 and 2025 drafts, keep tabs on these prospects who could potentially fill the voids left by these departures:
- WRs: Jordan Addison (USC), Joey Gallo (Notre Dame), and Anderson Lockett ( Lourdes)
- TEs: Michael Mayer (Notre Dame), Luke Musgrave (Oregon St.), and Darnell Washington (Georgia)
Call to Action
Now it’s your turn, 247Sports.new readers. Who do you think the Patriots should target in the upcoming drafts? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s discuss the future of the Patriots together!