The Patriots have made numerous moves this offseason, many of which were unexpected, in an effort to assemble an upgraded team that can regain competitiveness. That's the hope of new head coach Mike Vrabel, which led him to release every dynasty-era player still on the team, including David Andrews, Ja'Whaun Bentley, and Jonathan Jones.
Most of those whom the team chose to move on from have found new homes elsewhere in the NFL, or, in Andrews' case, are retiring. But months after being cut, Bentley's availability is all the more shocking, as he was projected to have a pivotal role on the Patriots' defense this fall.
Although he suffered a season-ending injury in the first month of the 2024 season, creating a massive hole on the defense that couldn't be filled in his absence, he is expected to return to his usual self, or even better, and could be a welcome addition to any defense across the league. Instead, he's on the outside looking in as teams get ready to begin training camp later this month.
Former Patriots' linebacker Ja'Whaun Bentley is still a free agent
The Patriots clearly had a plan in place to account for Bentley's absence, resulting in the additions of linebackers Jack Gibbens, Harold Landry, and Robert Spillane. Fortunately for them, they aren't entering training camp with a big question mark surrounding their defensive line.
The same cannot be said about Bentley, who is surprisingly still looking for a team with the preseason right around the corner.
Given his most recent performance in 2023, a season where he recorded 114 combined tackles, five for a loss, 12 quarterback hits, a forced fumble and 4.5 sacks, earning a 65.8 grade from Pro Football Focus in 16 games, that would presumably set him up to find a new team in need of a solid veteran linebacker. On top of that, a great locker room leader and mentor to young talent.
He has also been a consistent run defender since becoming a starter in New England in 2021, and based on the sheer number of incredible running backs in the league, there is inevitably a spot for him on a team's roster. It could almost be argued that the Patriots could still be a suitor, if they wanted to use Bentley in a rotational piece, at least.
However, that's apparently not enticing enough to be signed like his former teammates Jonathan Jones and Deatrich Wise, who are continuing their careers with the Commanders or elsewhere. It does seem like he will be signed somewhere, though, as he is too reliable a player to sit out the entire upcoming season.