Leading up to roster cuts this upcoming Tuesday, there have been plenty of rumors surrounding the inevitable futures of several players. Besides the names that many believe won't make the team for the 2025 season, there have also been suggestions that some could be traded for draft capital, or even part of a blockbuster move for one of the players still looking for an extension.
Among those in that conversation is linebacker Anfernee Jennings, a 2020 draft pick who has progressively climbed the ranks of the defense in the years since joining the team. He has become a starter in recent years, but finds himself close to being on the outside looking in just weeks before the season begins.
Because of this, Mike Vrabel had him play in most of the preseason games over the last two weeks, and although Jennings was mostly quiet, he still put on solid performances, especially against the Vikings when he recorded three sacks.
That could lead to a last-minute change to keep him around, if they feel it was enough, but it certainly doesn't hurt that he's also making a final plea to the only team he's ever played for.
Anfernee Jennings makes it clear that he wants to stay in New England
Although it might not have been at the forefront of his mind on Sunday, while he hosted an event for kids in Mattapan, Jennings was inevitably asked by reporters about his impending future in New England.
He made it known that Boston has become a second home to him in the last five years and that he has enjoyed playing for the team, as well as hosting/attending several charity events, and made it clear that he would like to remain with the team for the season ahead.
“I’m spending a lot of time with my family and controlling what I can control. Like, I am a Patriot. I want to be here. But, I understand the business and I really haven’t even thought that much about it. I’m just controlling what I can control and trying to get ready for Game 1.”
Given the concerns surrounding the Patriots' potential thin depth at several positions, including the defense, it would make the most sense to keep a tried and true player like Jennings around, even if he doesn't necessarily fit the mold of what Vrabel has historically liked at linebacker.
He has proven himself to be a reliable player on the field, and his familiarity with the team can go a long way for a very telling upcoming season. Jennings can be productive and doesn't necessarily have to be a starter, which makes retaining him even more desirable.
It's unclear if that will hold much weight in the eyes of the new regime, so we'll have to wait until Tuesday's deadline to find out if Jennings makes the cut.