As the New England Patriots prepare for their biggest game of the season - a Super Bowl LX clash with the Seattle Seahawks - the focus is understandably on the task at hand. But when the final whistle blows, win or lose, the front office will quickly pivot to a critical offseason that could reshape the roster in meaningful ways.
The Patriots are set to enter the offseason with significant cap space, giving them the flexibility to re-sign their own free agents and explore external options to strengthen the 90-man roster. But that flexibility also comes with tough decisions - including the potential release of veteran running back Antonio Gibson.
Antonio Gibson’s Future in Foxborough Uncertain
Gibson, who inked a three-year, $11.25 million deal with New England in March 2024, came into the season as the third running back on the depth chart behind Rhamondre Stevenson and rookie TreVeyon Henderson. That pecking order limited his offensive touches, but he found a niche on special teams, where he made a real impact.
In limited offensive action, Gibson logged 106 rushing yards and a touchdown on 25 carries. But where he really turned heads was in the return game - averaging 28.5 yards per kickoff return across 12 attempts, including a highlight-reel touchdown that reminded everyone of his explosiveness in the open field.
Unfortunately, Gibson’s season was cut short in Week 5 by a torn ACL in his right knee - a tough break for a player who was just beginning to carve out a valuable role.
That injury opened the door for others. Practice squad call-up Terrell Jennings stepped into the RB3 role and held it for much of the season until a concussion sidelined him.
That led to D’Ernest Johnson getting his shot - and he made the most of it. Between Johnson, Jennings, and the return of undrafted rookie Lan Larison from a broken foot, the Patriots suddenly find themselves with a crowded and cost-effective backfield.
Cap Implications and a Potential Split
From a salary cap perspective, parting ways with Gibson could be a logical move. Per OverTheCap.com, releasing him before June 1 would free up $3.14 million in cap space while leaving behind only $1 million in dead money. For a team looking to maximize its spending power during free agency, that’s a notable figure.
And while New England isn’t hurting for cap space, every dollar counts - especially when you're looking to plug holes across the roster and possibly add veteran depth at key positions.
A Solid But Short-Lived Tenure
To be clear, Gibson’s time in New England hasn’t been a bust. In 2024, he tallied 744 total yards and a touchdown, showing flashes of the versatility that made him a valuable piece during his earlier years in the league. But the Patriots’ decision to draft Henderson signaled a shift - a move toward youth and long-term upside in the backfield.
Now, with Henderson entrenched, Stevenson still under contract, and a trio of younger backs showing promise, Gibson’s role - and salary - may no longer fit.
What’s Next for Gibson?
At 27 and coming off a major injury, Gibson faces an uncertain offseason. But if he can return to form, there’s reason to believe he can still contribute elsewhere. His ability to impact both the running game and special teams gives him a chance to land on a roster that can offer him a bigger role.
For the Patriots, it’s about balancing loyalty and production with the realities of roster construction. And for Gibson, it could be the start of a new chapter - one where a fresh opportunity might offer the reps and responsibility that just weren’t available in New England.