ESPN reporter Mike Reiss confirmed that the New England Patriots are releasing linebacker Ja'Whaun Bentley. Bentley, a three-time team captain during his seven seasons with the Patriots, missed most of last season with a torn pec.
This leaves uncertainty about his next destination and the team's linebacker situation heading into next season. In 2023, Bentley played in 16 games, recording 114 tackles, five tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, three pass deflections, and one forced fumble.
Patriots LB Ja'Whaun Bentley says goodbye.
Expectation is that the team will be releasing him today.
Three-time captain. Has been with team for 7 seasons.
Just said over the weekend he has been fully cleared recently after sustaining a torn pec Week 2 last season. https://t.co/FGsxxJwrQ2
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) March 28, 2025
It marked his third consecutive season with at least 100 tackles, one sack, and two pass deflections. Bentley had 12 tackles and half a sack in two games last season before his injury.
A strong tackler, Bentley excels in stopping the run, covering receivers over the middle, and making plays on the ball. Although sidelined by injury last year, he has been generally healthy in his career and is only 28, making him an appealing asset for many teams.
Potential suitors include the Los Angeles Rams, Las Vegas Raiders, Tennessee Titans, Cincinnati Bengals, and Dallas Cowboys. The Raiders and Titans have gaps after losing linebackers Robert Spillane, Harold Landry, Jack Gibbens, and K'Lavon Chaisson to free agency. Bentley's skill set would benefit both teams.
A general overview of the game field with the Pat Patriot throwback logo at Gillette Stadium prior to a game against the Indianapolis Colts. Eric Canha-Imagn Images Eric Canha-Imagn Images
The Bengals, Rams, and Cowboys, all contenders, also need linebacker help and may be interested in adding Bentley to bolster their defenses. At 28, Bentley may be more inclined to sign with a team with Super Bowl aspirations.
With Bentley's departure, the Patriots face questions about their linebacker depth. Backup inside linebackers Jack Gibbens, Christian Elliss, and Jahlani Tavai are all capable starters. Still, the team could explore adding a new starter or depth through the draft or free agency.
Veterans CJ Mosley, Isaiah Simmons, and De'Vondre Campbell remain available in free agency. Mosley and Campbell are experienced players who, when healthy, can still be strong starters.
Simmons, 26, was once a top draft pick and could develop further, especially under a coach like Bill Belichick, known for maximizing linebacker talent.
The Patriots may also opt to draft a linebacker. Top linebacker prospect Jihaad Campbell from Alabama would be available if they trade back in the first round. They could also consider Carson Schwesinger, Demetrius Knight, or Chris Paul Jr. with a mid-round selection.
Schwesinger and Knight, projected to go in the second or third rounds, most closely resemble Bentley's playing style and would be solid fits for the Patriots.
Bentley leaves a legacy as a key contributor to the Patriots' 2019 Super Bowl victory. Fans will appreciate his hard work and leadership, but the team must move forward and find a new solution for the linebacker position.
Related: Patriots to Host Iowa State Super-Athlete Receiver on Top 30 Visit
Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved
This story was originally published March 28, 2025 at 12:00 PM.