The New England Patriots are reportedly releasing linebacker Marte Mapu after three seasons with the team, according to ESPN's Mike Reiss.
"The Patriots have informed LB/personal protector Marte Mapu that they intend to release him, per sources," Reiss wrote on Tuesday. "Mapu, a third-round pick in 2023, has appeared in 44 NFL games (10 starts). Enters last year of his contract in 2026 and is due a base salary of $1.508 million."
Mapu was part of the Patriots' 2023 NFL Draft Class, the last draft headed by Bill Belichick. Mapu lacked a clear position when he came into the league. He had size and versatility, but it became clear last season that he was not a great fit in Mike Vrabel's defense. Mapu started 10 of 44 possible games for the Patriots in three seasons, but made no starts last season.
He played both safety and linebacker in his time with the Patriots, but last season, he saw most of his work on special teams as a protector. He played 120 snaps on defense and 255 on special teams. This was an easy move to make and save some money.
The Patriots could be targeting linebacker depth in the draft as a result, and it would not be surprising to see the team invest in a linebacker early. Robert Spillane will be 32 after next season, and the Patriots could move on from him after the season without a huge dead cap hit. Even if they hang on to him for 2027, he will be a free agent after.
Christian Elliss will be a free agent after next season, and the Patriots will potentially need someone to replace him. Selecting a linebacker now could give them some depth and a potential starter for next season.
Drafting a linebacker early might make some fans upset, but it would give the team security for the future.
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