New England Patriots to Release Anfernee Jennings, Save $3.8M in Cap Space The New England Patriots have notified outside linebacker Anfernee Jennings of their decision to release him, according to sources. Jennings, the team’s longest-tenured player, will be let go as the Patriots reshape their defensive lineup. The move is expected to free up approximately $3.8 million in salary-cap space. Jennings, a third-round draft pick from Alabama in 2020, joined the team as a long-time contributor, sharing the distinction of being the longest-tenured player with right guard Mike Onwenu. He played under head coaches Bill Belichick, Jerod Mayo, and Mike Vrabel during his tenure. The 28-year-old, who stands 6 feet 2 inches and weighs 255 pounds, was set to earn $4 million in 2026, the final year of his contract. His total salary-cap charge for the season was $4.86 million. In 2025, Jennings appeared in 14 regular-season games, starting three (32% of the snaps). He recorded 19 tackles, two sacks, seven quarterback hits, and seven special-teams tackles. He also participated in all four playoff games, contributing 16 tackles, two sacks, and one pass defended during the postseason. Head coach Mike Vrabel named Jennings a game captain before the AFC Championship Game, recognizing his professionalism and adaptability to the new defensive system. This role was a point of pride for Jennings, who had previously thrived as a reliable run defender in prior schemes. The decision to release Jennings aligns with the Patriots’ efforts to restructure their outside linebacker/edge position. The team has signed Dre'Mont Jones to a three-year, $39.5 million contract, aiming to pair him with veteran Harold Landry III.#new_england_patriots #mike_vrabel #anfernee_jennings #dremont_jones #klavon_chaisson
