Veteran RB Gibson Released by Patriots

Gibson believes "best is yet to come" after New England parts ways with the running back.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The New England Patriots have released veteran running back Antonio Gibson, who took to Instagram to express his gratitude for the organization and fans while stating that "the best is yet to come" for him. Gibson's 2025 season was limited to just five games after he tore his ACL, and with a crowded backfield in New England, he became the odd-man out as the team looks to save $3.1 million against the salary cap.

Why it matters

Gibson's release is part of the Patriots' offseason roster moves as they look to retool their roster and salary cap for the upcoming season. The veteran running back had been a solid depth option for New England over the past two years, but his injury history and the team's depth at the position made him expendable.

The details

Antonio Gibson was entering the final year of his three-year deal with the Patriots, and none of his $4.14 million salary for 2026 was guaranteed. By releasing Gibson, the Patriots will save $3.1 million against the salary cap. New England now has roughly $40.5 million to spend this offseason as they look to build around a crowded backfield that includes Rhamondre Stevenson, TreVeyon Henderson, Terrell Jennings, Elijah Mitchell, and Lan Larison.

  • On February 24, 2026, the Patriots released Antonio Gibson.
  • Gibson's 2025 season was limited to just five games after he tore his ACL.

The players

Antonio Gibson

A veteran running back who was released by the New England Patriots after two seasons with the team.

Rhamondre Stevenson

A Patriots running back who commented on Gibson's Instagram post, expressing his support for the veteran.

Jaylinn Hawkins

A Patriots safety who commented on Gibson's Instagram post, expressing his belief that Gibson's "comeback gon be even greater."

Kendrick Bourne

A 49ers wide receiver who commented on Gibson's Instagram post, agreeing that "God's plan [is] greater."

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What they’re saying

“Thank you to the organization and the fans for the support and belief but the journey continues and the best is yet to come.”

— Antonio Gibson (Instagram)

“LOVE”

— Rhamondre Stevenson, Patriots RB (Instagram)

“The comeback gon be even greater ! God got a bigger plan love you dawg.”

— Jaylinn Hawkins, Patriots S (Instagram)

“Facts! GODS plan greater!”

— Kendrick Bourne, 49ers WR (Instagram)

What’s next

The Patriots will now look to fill the void left by Gibson's release as they continue to shape their roster for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

Gibson's release is a reminder that even veteran players can be expendable in the NFL, especially when a team has depth at a position and needs to manage its salary cap. However, Gibson's positive attitude and support from former teammates suggest he believes he still has more to offer in the league.