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Patriots Let Go of Mapu, Eyeing Linebacker Draft
Description
The New England Patriots are making significant changes to their defense, releasing linebacker-safety hybrid Marte Mapu before the 2026 season. Mapu, a third-round pick from the Bill Belichick era, was set to enter a contract year with a base salary of $1.5 million. Despite his versatility and contributions on special teams, the team has decided to move on, leaving gaps in both defense and special teams tackles. The Patriots are looking to the draft to replenish their linebacker corps, with executive Eliot Wolf describing the class as strong. The teams current linebackers include Robert Spillane, Christian Elliss, KJ Britt, Otis Reese, Chad Muma, and Amari Gainer, supported by eleven picks at the end of the month. As they rebuild under new leadership, the Patriots aim to create depth that aligns with Mike Vrabels vision and transforms their defense into a formidable force once again.
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