The New England Patriots will look to address the off-ball linebacker position in the upcoming draft as the team reorganizes its depth. So far, New England has declined to place a restricted free-agent tender on Jack Gibbens, who signed with the Arizona Cardinals, and has released Jahlani Tavai. The Patriots brought in K.J. Britt, the only addition at the position, while a former Bill Belichick draft pick could be the next player moved.
Marte Mapu is on the chopping block with the Patriots reportedly looking to cut him if a trade doesn’t materialize. The former third-round pick enters the final year of his deal and is scheduled to earn a $1.508 million base salary along with a $1.77 million cap hit in 2026, per Over The Cap.Mapu is coming off a disappointing third season, during which he switched back to linebacker and saw the fewest playing time of his career. He recorded 25 tackles, one interception, five pass breakups, and one forced fumble across 17 regular-season games and 120 snaps.
New England Patriots trade Bill Belichick’s final 3rd-round pick
New England Patriots, Marte Mapu
Feb 8, 2026; Santa Clara, CA, USA; New England Patriots linebacker Marte Mapu (15) against the Seattle Seahawks during Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
According to Jonathan M. Alexander of The Houston Chronicle, the New England Patriots have agreed to a single-player trade and a late-round pick swap. Houston acquires Marte Mapu and a 2027 seventh-round pick, while New England receives a 2027 sixth-round pick. As a result, the Patriots free up $1.508 million in cap space while taking on $261,000 in dead cap, receiving draft compensation rather than cutting Mapu outright.
The #Texans have traded for Pats LB Marte Mapu, per a source.
— Jonathan M Alexander (@jonmalexander) April 7, 2026
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Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen, running with the ball, gets brought down by New England Patriots linebacker Robert Spillane during first half action at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park on Oct. 5, 2025.
Robert Spillane
Christian Elliss
K.J. Britt
Chad Muma
Otis Reese IV
Amari Gainer