New England Patriots Release Running Back Antonio Gibson After Two Seasons

United States - Ekhbary News Agency

New England Patriots Release Running Back Antonio Gibson After Two Seasons

The New England Patriots have made a significant roster move, announcing the release of running back Antonio Gibson on Monday. Gibson, who was in his second season with the storied franchise, was set to count $4.14 million against the team's salary cap. This decision comes at a critical juncture for the Patriots as they continue to navigate their rebuilding phase and assess their long-term strategic direction in the competitive landscape of the National Football League (NFL).

Gibson's tenure with the Patriots, though relatively brief, was marked by flashes of the playmaking ability that made him a notable figure in the league. He enters his seventh year in the NFL overall, having previously spent four seasons with the Washington Commanders from 2020 to 2023 before joining New England for the 2024 and 2025 seasons. His impact was perhaps most vividly illustrated last season when he delivered a spectacular 90-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. This electrifying play served as a signature moment in the team's first victory of the season in Week 2 against the Miami Dolphins, earning him AFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors and underscoring his value as a dynamic contributor on special teams.

The financial implications of Gibson's contract also played a role in the decision. He was scheduled to earn a base salary of $2.85 million in 2026, the final year of his three-year deal. Crucially, the contract had no remaining guaranteed money, making his release a financially feasible option for the Patriots' management. In the NFL, where salary cap management is paramount, teams often leverage contract structures to maintain flexibility, especially when dealing with player recovery from significant injuries like the torn ACL Gibson sustained in Week 5 of the 2025 season.

Gibson's injury undoubtedly complicated his role and future with the team. The road back from a torn ACL is arduous, and the Patriots' decision reflects a pragmatic approach to roster construction, prioritizing players who are healthy and ready to contribute consistently. The team already boasts a strong running back duo in Rhamondre Stevenson and the recently acquired TreVeyon Henderson. Gibson would have likely been competing for the No. 3 role behind them, a position that now opens up for other players on the roster.

Beyond Stevenson and Henderson, the Patriots have other running backs on their depth chart, including Terrell Jennings, Elijah Mitchell, and Lan Larison. The team's decision to release Gibson suggests they are confident in the existing talent or are actively exploring other avenues to bolster the running back position. The competition for roster spots intensifies each year, and Gibson's release creates an opportunity for emerging players to step into a more prominent role.

Throughout his 83 career NFL games (35 starts), the 6-foot-228-pound Gibson has amassed significant statistics. He has rushed for 3,287 yards and scored 24 touchdowns, demonstrating his effectiveness as a ball carrier. Furthermore, he has proven to be a capable receiver out of the backfield, accumulating 1,495 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. His contributions to special teams, highlighted by his kickoff return touchdown, further showcase his versatility. He returned 56 kickoffs for 1,407 yards, averaging an impressive 25.1 yards per return.

The release of Antonio Gibson is more than just a transaction; it's a reflection of the ever-evolving nature of NFL rosters and the difficult decisions teams must make to optimize their chances of success. While fans may remember Gibson for his explosive plays, the Patriots are likely focused on building a cohesive and healthy unit capable of competing for championships. The team's ongoing discussions about player futures, including speculation surrounding players like A.J. Brown, indicate a proactive approach to team building, aiming to assemble a roster that can meet the high expectations of the fanbase and the league.

Ekhbary News Agency