New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel is set to bring a new culture into the organization in hopes of a return to the dominance they once had for over two decades. And part of doing this is doing away with the culture of the old regime, which they went a long way in doing on Friday.
Patriots linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley served as a key figure in the Patriots locker room during his seven seasons with the organization, serving as a team captain for three seasons.
On the field, Bentley also had an impact as a starter for the organization from 2020 to 2023. This past season, Bentley’s year was cut short due to a season-ending pectoral injury.
Given all that he has done for the Patriots during his time with the organization, one would think that Vrabel may want to keep him as a locker room presence at the very least.
However, that is seemingly not the case, as the Patriots organization cut ties with Bentley on Friday.
Just in: The #Patriots are expected to release LB Ja’Whaun Bentley after seven seasons, during which he started 68 games, recorded over 500 tackles, and served as a multi-time captain. pic.twitter.com/uhzXvLJJwc
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) March 28, 2025
In a post on X, Bentley thanked the Patriots organization and fans for all the support he has received over the years.
“New England!! Thank You for Everything!! It’s Been a Blessing,” wrote Bentley.
New England‼️
Thank You for Everything‼️
It’s Been a Blessing 🖤🎱— JB (@NVBentley33) March 28, 2025
Bentley should be an interesting player to watch as he enters free agency given the kind of production he has had in New England during his time in the NFL.
As for the Patriots, they appear to be in the midst of a full rebuild under Vrabel, where even players like Bentley are being moved. So whether it is a success or a failure for Vrabel as the lead man in New England, it will at the very least be fun to watch.
About Reice Shipley
Reice Shipley is a staff writer for Comeback Media that graduated from Ithaca College with a degree in Sports Media. He previously worked at Barrett Sports Media and is a fan of all things Syracuse sports.