The New England Patriots are parting ways with linebacker Kyle Van Noy to free up salary cap space, according to reports. By releasing Van Noy, the Patriots free up almost $5 million in cap space.
Van Noy spent time at both inside and outside linebacker for the Patriots in 2021 and started 16 games. He was a key cog in their defense with 66 tackles, five sacks, one forced fumble, one interception and 10 passes defended last year. New England, however, is tight against the salary cap in 2022 with a number of impending free agents. The Patriots seem interested in freeing up space, forgoing their contract with Van Noy in hopes of bringing on or retaining other key players.
Cornerback J.C. Jackson, safety Devin McCourty, linebacker Dont’a Hightower and tackle Trent Brown are among the starters set to enter free agency next week.
Source: the Patriots are releasing starting OLB Kyle Van Noy.
A decision with salary cap roots, as moving on from the versatile Van Noy creates just under $5M in cap space.
Van Noy can sign with another team right away.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) March 7, 2022
Van Noy will leave behind a group of linebackers which includes Matt Judon, Ronnie Perkins, Chase Winovich, Raekwon McMillan, Cameron McGrone, Josh Uche, Terez Hall, Jahlani Tavai and Anfernee Jennings.
Linebackers Hightower, Ja’Whaun Bentley, Jamie Collins and Harvey Langi are impending free agents. While they have to wait until the new league year to begin signing with new teams, Van Noy can sign with a new team at any time.
