Linebacker Ja'Whaun Bentley has announced his departure from the New England Patriots after seven seasons, as he prepares for release ahead of the upcoming 2025 season.

Over his career with the Patriots, Bentley played in 83 games, starting 68, and recorded 509 total tackles and 10.5 sacks.

With Bentley's exit, long-snapper Joe Cardona is now the only remaining player from the Patriots' Super Bowl LIII-winning team, highlighting significant changes within the organization.

In a heartfelt message on social media, Bentley expressed gratitude to the franchise, stating, 'New England Thank You for Everything It’s Been a Blessing.'

The decision to release Bentley comes as new head coach Mike Vrabel implements a more aggressive defensive scheme that may not align with Bentley's playing style.

His release will create $4.6 million in salary cap space for the Patriots, while incurring $1.8 million in dead money.

The Patriots have been active in the offseason, adding several new players to bolster their linebacker corps, including Robert Spillane and Jack Gibbens.

Bentley's release surprised teammates, including cornerback Christian Gonzalez, who expressed disbelief on social media, and former teammate Davon Godchaux, who criticized the lack of loyalty in the NFL.

During his tenure, Bentley served as a three-time team captain, demonstrating his leadership within the Patriots organization.

Bentley, who was in the final year of a two-year, $13.4 million contract extension, played only two games in 2024 due to a season-ending torn pectoral injury.

He missed the entire 2024 season after suffering a torn left pectoral muscle in Week 2, but he has since been cleared to play again.

Vrabel is reshaping the team culture in his first season, following a disappointing previous season where the Patriots finished with a 4-13 record.