Yesterday was a busy day for the New England Patriots, as they trimmed their roster down to 53 players. They made some anticipated cuts, such as releasing Cole Strange, but they also made some shocking moves.
One of those surprising decisions was releasing this year’s fifth-round pick, Bradyn Swinson. This move was a surprise to everyone, considering his draft status, and could ultimately be a decision the Patriots end up regretting.
Patriots Will Regret Cutting Bradyn Swinson
The Patriots were one of the worst teams getting to the quarterback last season, ranking dead-last in sacks (28) and 29th in quarterback pressure percentage (17.6%). They emphasized acquiring players to bolster their pass-rush unit, and Bradyn Swinson was one of those additions.
Before his breakout season with the LSU Tigers last year, Swinson recorded only five sacks and 13 tackles for loss in four seasons. Last year, Swinson recorded eight and a half sacks, two forced fumbles, 13 tackles for loss, and 58 total tackles. His play drew interest from the Patriots, who selected him on day three of the draft.
Swinson was projected to be a depth player in a crowded edge rush room that featured Harold Landry III and K’Lavon Chaisson. He wasn’t projected to be an impactful player in his rookie year, and this season was viewed as a developmental year for him.
However, the Patriots didn’t view it this way. Swinson recorded four hurries and zero sacks in three games, which led to his release. Although it was disappointing that Swinson had a quiet Summer, it shouldn’t have resulted in cutting him.
It’s rare for teams to cut a fifth-round selection, and it made no sense for the Patriots to cut him this early. Teams should be patient with rookies, and Swinson showcased that he needs time to develop.
If he didn’t show any progression next year around this time, the release would’ve been acceptable, but four months after drafting him is outrageous. Now that he’s released, you’d have to hope a team doesn’t claim him through waivers, which is unlikely given he was a fifth-round pick.
This release could end up biting the Patriots if a team is willing to be patient with Swinson, as he’s displayed potential to be a quality pass-rusher.