The Patriots might be in need of more linebacker depth. On Wednesday, the Patriots opted to not tender restricted free agent Jack Gibbens, according to a source. That means the veteran linebacker is now an unrestricted free agent.

With the 2026 league year opening up, the New England Patriots have reportedly made a decision on one of their linebackers.

According to Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer, the Patriots are releasing linebacker Jahlani Tavai ahead of the start of free agency. The 29-year-old played the last five seasons in New England. However, he wasn’t seen as an ideal fit for the Patriots in Mike Vrabel’s system.

The New England Patriots did not tender linebacker Jack Gibbens on Wednesday afternoon. This now makes him an unrestricted free agent. The Boston Herald’s Doug Kyed reported this. Gibbens was a major player for the Patriots last season.

The Patriots are releasing linebacker Jahlani Tavai, a source confirmed Monday. Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer first reported the news Monday. Tavai, 29, first joined the Patriots in 2021. He was one of the longest-tenured players on the Patriots but took on a reduced role in 2025.

For the second offseason in a row, linebacker K.J. Britt is signing with an AFC East team as an NFL unrestricted free agent. After playing for the Miami Dolphins in 2025, the former Oxford High School and Auburn standout has agreed to a one-year contract with the New England Patriots for the 2026 season.

The New England Patriots are expected to add several pieces to their defensive front heading into the 2026 NFL season.

The New England Patriots released linebacker Jahlani Tavai on Monday morning. Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer reported this. Tavai appeared in 17 games for the Patriots last season. He recorded 26 tackles in 12 games,