Patriots Release Longtime Linebacker Jahlani Tavai

The move comes ahead of free agency as New England looks to reshape its linebacker corps.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The New England Patriots have released veteran linebacker Jahlani Tavai, who had been with the team since 2021 after being claimed off the Detroit Lions' practice squad. Tavai was a key contributor to the Patriots' defense in recent seasons, but injuries and a rare autoimmune disease limited his playing time in 2025. The Patriots now have several decisions to make regarding their linebacker group, including restricted free agent Jack Gibbens.

Why it matters

Tavai's release is part of the Patriots' efforts to reshape their linebacker room ahead of free agency. While Tavai was a valuable player, the team has other options at the position, including Robert Spillane and Christian Elliss. This move provides the Patriots with more flexibility to potentially add new talent to the defense.

The details

Tavai signed a three-year, $15 million contract extension with the Patriots in July 2024 after initially joining the team off the Detroit Lions' practice squad in 2021. He appeared in 17 games for the Patriots last season, recording 26 tackles in 12 games, 7 of which he started. Tavai battled injuries and a rare autoimmune disease in 2025, but was still able to contribute to the team's Super Bowl LX run.

  • Tavai was released by the Patriots on Monday, March 9, 2026.
  • Tavai signed his contract extension with the Patriots in July 2024.

The players

Jahlani Tavai

A linebacker who spent the past few seasons with the New England Patriots after being claimed off the Detroit Lions' practice squad in 2021.

Robert Spillane

A veteran linebacker who led the Patriots in tackles in 2025.

Christian Elliss

A linebacker who remains under contract with the Patriots after a strong 2025 season.

Jack Gibbens

A restricted free agent linebacker who was a major contributor to the Patriots' defense in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“The New England Patriots released linebacker Jahlani Tavai on Monday morning, in what is sure to be a busy week.”

— Albert Breer, Sports Illustrated Reporter (Sports Illustrated)

What’s next

The Patriots will need to make decisions on the futures of several linebackers, including restricted free agent Jack Gibbens, as they look to reshape the position group ahead of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Tavai's release is part of the Patriots' efforts to retool their linebacker corps, providing them with more flexibility to potentially add new talent to the defense. While Tavai was a valuable contributor, the team has other options at the position, including Spillane and Elliss, who will likely play bigger roles going forward.