Patriots Release Linebacker Tavai Before Free Agency

0:00On March 9th, here's the latest surrounding the NFL. The New England Patriots have released linebacker, Jelani Tevi, after five years with the team. This move comes right before free agency starts, clearing space on the roster. Tevi joined in October 2021 and played in 76 games, starting 51 of them. He became a key defender, especially with back-to-back seasons of over 100 tackles in 2023 and 2024. Those years saw him start 32 of 34 games, hit career highs like 65 solo tackles and two interceptions one year, and seven. Tackles for loss the next. The release saves the Patriots about $1.7 million in cap space right away, though they owe $3.48 million in debt. Money. A post-June first designation would free up around $3.179 million instead. Tevi faced tough times in 2025, dealing with a rare autoimmune disease and an injury that sideline him for the first four games.

1:01Later, he missed a week 12 win over the Cincinnati Bengals, when his wife fought a serious blood infection, leading to the loss of their unborn. Daughter? Despite it all, the 29-year-old earned the team's Ed Block Courage Award in January. He finished with 42 tackles, four tackles for loss, and a forced fumble in 12 games. Then played all four playoff matchups with eight. Tackles and two starts. Now he's hitting free agency. Thanks to our sponsor for supporting today's coverage. Your favorite podcasts, music, or sleeve sounds coming from your pillow. No earbuds, no distractions, just listen and relax. S-O-L-L-I. SoleyPillow.com