Patriots Release Former Alabama Linebacker Anfernee Jennings

The veteran outside linebacker spent six seasons with New England.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

The New England Patriots have released former Alabama linebacker Anfernee Jennings, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. Jennings, a third-round pick in 2020, spent his entire six-year NFL career with the Patriots, starting 40 of the 75 games he appeared in. Over that span, he recorded 217 total tackles, 27 tackles for loss, and 7.5 sacks.

Why it matters

Jennings was a key part of the Patriots' defense in recent seasons, helping the team reach the Super Bowl this past year. His release is a notable roster move for New England as they look to retool their roster for the upcoming season.

The details

In 2022, Jennings started 3 of 14 games played, finishing with 26 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, and 1 fumble recovery. The former Alabama standout was a two-time national champion with the Crimson Tide, recording 193 tackles, 33.5 tackles for loss, and 14.5 sacks over his five-year college career.

  • Jennings was drafted by the Patriots in the 3rd round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
  • He spent all six seasons of his NFL career with the New England Patriots.
  • In 2022, Jennings helped the Patriots reach the Super Bowl.

The players

Anfernee Jennings

A former third-round pick by the New England Patriots out of the University of Alabama, where he was a two-time national champion.

New England Patriots

An NFL team that has released Anfernee Jennings after six seasons with the organization.

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What they’re saying

“According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the New England Patriots are releasing former Alabama Crimson Tide outside linebacker Anfernee Jennings.”

— Adam Schefter, ESPN Reporter (ESPN)

The takeaway

Jennings' release highlights the Patriots' ongoing roster changes as they look to build a contending team for the 2023 season. The former Alabama standout had been a reliable contributor for New England, but the team has decided to move in a different direction at the linebacker position.