Patriots release RB Antonio Gibson, freeing $3.1M in cap space. For bettors, this boosts TreVeyon Henderson and Rhamondre Stevenson’s workloads — consider backing Henderson for breakout rushing-yard props and shop Patriots rushing totals; Gibson’s ACL history makes him a long shot to impact early-season RB markets.
Patriots cut Antonio Gibson as running-back room reshapes
The New England Patriots made an early 2026 offseason move, releasing running back Antonio Gibson. The decision saves the team $3.1 million in cap space while creating roughly $1 million in dead money. Gibson signed a three-year, $11.2 million deal in 2024 and played parts of two seasons for the club.
Gibson’s production and injury history
Gibson appeared in 22 games (three starts) over his Patriots tenure. In 2024 he carried 120 times for 538 yards and one touchdown, adding 23 catches for 206 yards. In 2025 he managed just five games before suffering a torn ACL, finishing with 25 carries for 106 yards, one score and two receptions for six yards. He also contributed on special teams as a return man.
Cap implications and roster strategy
The cut is a modest salary-cap move that gives New England flexibility while absorbing a limited dead-money charge. Releasing Gibson signals the team is ready to lean on younger options and manage depth with an eye toward cap efficiency heading into the offseason and draft.
Who replaces Gibson on the depth chart
With Gibson gone, the Patriots’ leading backs under contract are TreVeyon Henderson, Rhamondre Stevenson and Terrell Jennings. The emergence of 2025 draftee TreVeyon Henderson played a major role in the decision; his increased role late last season made Gibson’s roster spot less secure once the injury occurred.
On-field outlook
Expect the Patriots to distribute more snaps to Henderson and Stevenson, with Henderson likely taking on more early-down and explosive-play opportunities. Special-teams and return duties may also be reassigned, reducing the club’s immediate reliance on a single veteran returner.
Betting implications
The roster change alters several prop markets. Season-long rushing-yard and touchdown props for Henderson and Stevenson should be repriced upward; Henderson is a reasonable target for breakout or lead-back props.
Patriots offseason preview: Interior O-line remains in flux
Gibson’s ACL and free-agent status make him an unlikely early-season factor, so bettors should monitor preseason usage and snap reports before adjusting in-game wagers.
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