New England reshapes its backfield for 2026 as veteran running back Antonio Gibson begins a new chapter after his released
Patriots Part Ways with Antonio Gibson Ahead of 2026 Season: The New England Patriots have released veteran running back Antonio Gibson, making him one of the first major roster moves of the 2026 offseason.
Gibson, who signed a three-year deal worth about $11 million in 2024, spent two seasons with the team and appeared in 22 games. The decision helps the Patriots reshape their running back group while also creating valuable salary-cap space.
The move comes as Gibson continues his recovery from a torn ACL, an injury he suffered during the 2025 season.
After the release, Gibson shared a positive message, thanking the organization and fans and expressing confidence that “the best is yet to come.”
Antonio Gibson Career Overview
Now entering his seventh NFL season, Gibson has built a solid career as a versatile offensive weapon.
Career Stats
| Category | Total |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 83 |
| Starts | 35 |
| Rushing Yards | 3,287 |
| Rushing TDs | 24 |
| Receiving Yards | 1,495 |
| Receiving TDs | 7 |
| Kickoff Returns | 56 for 1,407 yards |
His ability to contribute as a runner, receiver, and returner could make him attractive to teams once he fully recovers.
Contract and Salary Cap Impact
One of the key reasons behind the decision was financial flexibility.
Cap Details
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| 2026 Cap Hit | $4.14 million |
| Cap Savings | Approx. $3.1 million |
| Dead Money | About $1 million |
| Base Salary (2026) | $2.85 million |
The move leaves the Patriots with over $44 million in projected cap space, giving them more flexibility ahead of free agency and the draft.
However, if Gibson qualifies for injury protection and remains unsigned at the start of the season, the team could still face an additional financial charge.
Read more: How to Watch 2026 NFL Combine
Injury Played a Major Role
Gibson’s release was strongly influenced by his health situation.
- Suffered a torn ACL in Week 5 of the 2025 season
- Missed the rest of the year
- Currently in rehabilitation
- Released with a failed physical designation
Because of the timing of the injury and his recovery status, his role for 2026 was uncertain.
Patriots Running Back Depth After the Move
Before the release, Gibson was expected to compete for the No. 3 running back role. But the emergence of younger players made the situation more competitive.
Current Backfield Options
| Position | Players |
|---|---|
| Top RBs | Rhamondre Stevenson, TreVeyon Henderson |
| Depth | Terrell Jennings, Elijah Mitchell, Lan Larison |
| Fullback | Brock Lampe |
TreVeyon Henderson’s strong development late in the season played a major role in Gibson’s reduced role and eventual release.
The team is now expected to rely heavily on Stevenson and Henderson as its primary offensive backfield combination.
Special Teams Role Also Affected
Gibson was not just a running back—he was also the Patriots’ primary kickoff returner early in 2025.
Special Teams Highlights
- 12 kickoff returns
- 28.5 yards average
- 90-yard touchdown in Week 2 vs Miami
- Earned AFC Special Teams Player of the Week
After his injury, the Patriots struggled to find a consistent return option. Now, players like Henderson and wide receiver Kyle Williams are expected to compete for the role.
Read more: Washington Commanders 2026 NFL Offseason Schedule
Antonio Gibson’s Patriots Performance
Two-Year Production in New England
| Season | Games | Rush Yards | TDs | Receptions | Rec Yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 17 | 538 | 1 | 23 | 206 |
| 2025 | 5 | 106 | 1 | 2 | 6 |
| Total | 22 | 644 | 2 | 25 | 212 |
Injuries and a limited role prevented him from becoming a consistent offensive contributor.
What the Move Means for New England
The release signals a shift toward:
- Younger talent in the backfield
- Greater salary-cap efficiency
- Expanded roles for Stevenson and Henderson
- Potential search for another versatile depth option
It also reflects the Patriots’ broader roster rebuild and transition into a new team structure
At 27 years old, he still has experience and versatility that could help him extend his NFL career.
Read more: Top 10 Youngest NFL Head Coaches in 2026
Antonio Gibson’s release marks the end of a short but challenging chapter in New England. While injuries limited his impact, his experience and all-around skill set keep his NFL future alive. As the Patriots move forward with a younger backfield, Gibson now begins the next phase of his career, aiming to return stronger and prove his value once again.
FAQs
1. Why did the Patriots release Antonio Gibson?
The decision was driven by salary-cap savings, his ACL injury recovery, and increased competition in the running back group.
2. How much cap space did the Patriots save?
The team saved about $3.1 million while taking on roughly $1 million in dead money.
3. What injury did Gibson suffer?
He tore his ACL in Week 5 of the 2025 season.
4. Who replaces Gibson in the Patriots backfield?
The team will rely mainly on Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson, with additional depth options behind them.
5. Is Antonio Gibson still an NFL-caliber player?
Yes. At 27, his versatility as a runner, receiver, and returner could help him find another opportunity once fully healthy.
