Patriots defensive veteran says goodbye after seven seasons and a Super Bowl run, closing a chapter in New England
Linebacker Ja'Whaun Bentley took to X, formerly known as Twitter, on Friday morning to post a thank-you note to the New England Patriots. It confirmed that his time with the Patriots has come to an end, and the Boston Herald's Doug Kyed reported shortly after that New England was releasing the veteran linebacker. "New England […]
Linebacker Ja'Whaun Bentley took to X, formerly known as Twitter, on Friday morning to post a thank-you note to the New England Patriots.
It confirmed that his time with the Patriots has come to an end, and the Boston Herald's Doug Kyed reported shortly after that New England was releasing the veteran linebacker.
"New England ‼️ Thank You for Everything ‼️ It’s Been a Blessing 🖤🎱," Bentley wrote
The Patriots brought in two new linebackers in free agency this offseason – Robert Spillane and Jack Gibbens. They also used their tender on Christian Elliss, and while the Raiders did extend him an offer sheet, New England matched it.
Bentley was one of two players remaining on the Patriots from the Super Bowl championship days. Now, the last one standing is long snapper Joe Cardona.
Bentley has spent his whole career with the Patriots, joining the team in 2018 as a fifth round pick. Across his seven seasons, he has recorded 508 total tackles, 10.5 sacks, four forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, two interceptions, and 11 passes defended. His 2024 season was cut short after he suffered a a torn pectoral muscle, but he remained involved with the team and was around the facility during his recovery.
ESPN's Mike Reiss reported that he "said over the weekend he has been fully cleared recently after sustaining a torn pec Week 2 last season."
Bentley departs Foxborough as a three-time captain during his tenure.
