Posted on Feb 23

Patriots release RB Antonio Gibson after ACL injury recovery, cap savings of $4.14M

Posted Feb 23, 2026

The New England Patriots have released running back Antonio Gibson as he continues his recovery from a torn ACL injury.

Why it matters: This decision reflects the Patriots' strategic shift in their backfield, which now leans heavily on Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson.

With Gibson's release, the team frees up $4.14 million against the salary cap.
The move also signals confidence in their existing running backs to handle the workload moving forward.

What’s new: Antonio Gibson's tenure with the Patriots has come to an abrupt end after just two seasons.

Signed in 2024, Gibson played a total of 83 career NFL games with the Washington Commanders and the Patriots.
His last notable performance came during the previous season when he achieved a remarkable 90-yard kickoff return for a touchdown against Miami, earning him recognition as the AFC Special Teams Player of the Week.

Yes, but: Gibson's potential was overshadowed by injuries that hindered his ability to contribute effectively.

After sustaining a torn ACL in Week 5 of the 2025 season, Gibson struggled to regain his previous form.
He was projected to earn a base salary of $2.85 million in 2026, but the lack of guaranteed money made him expendable as the team re-evaluated their depth chart.

What to watch: The Patriots will need to solidify their running back corps as they prepare for the upcoming season.

With Gibson out of the mix, Stevenson becomes the clear lead back.
The competition for the No. 3 spot is likely to intensify among other candidates, including newly acquired talent.

The bottom line: Antonio Gibson's release marks the end of an era in which he displayed flashes of brilliance but ultimately could not overcome the obstacles presented by injuries.

As the Patriots look towards the future, they will rely on the stability offered by their current running backs while considering depth options in the draft or free agency.

Patriots release RB Antonio Gibson after ACL injury recovery, cap savings of $4.14M

Alex Parker

Posted Feb 23, 2026

The New England Patriots have released running back Antonio Gibson as he continues his recovery from a torn ACL injury.

Why it matters: This decision reflects the Patriots' strategic shift in their backfield, which now leans heavily on Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson.

With Gibson's release, the team frees up $4.14 million against the salary cap.

The move also signals confidence in their existing running backs to handle the workload moving forward.

What’s new: Antonio Gibson's tenure with the Patriots has come to an abrupt end after just two seasons.

Signed in 2024, Gibson played a total of 83 career NFL games with the Washington Commanders and the Patriots.

His last notable performance came during the previous season when he achieved a remarkable 90-yard kickoff return for a touchdown against Miami, earning him recognition as the AFC Special Teams Player of the Week.

Yes, but: Gibson's potential was overshadowed by injuries that hindered his ability to contribute effectively.

After sustaining a torn ACL in Week 5 of the 2025 season, Gibson struggled to regain his previous form.

He was projected to earn a base salary of $2.85 million in 2026, but the lack of guaranteed money made him expendable as the team re-evaluated their depth chart.

What to watch: The Patriots will need to solidify their running back corps as they prepare for the upcoming season.

With Gibson out of the mix, Stevenson becomes the clear lead back.

The competition for the No. 3 spot is likely to intensify among other candidates, including newly acquired talent.

The bottom line: Antonio Gibson's release marks the end of an era in which he displayed flashes of brilliance but ultimately could not overcome the obstacles presented by injuries.

As the Patriots look towards the future, they will rely on the stability offered by their current running backs while considering depth options in the draft or free agency.