Patriots Cutting Bill Belichick Holdover Right Before Free Agency

The New England Patriots have plenty of cap space to work with as we head to free agency, but they are still making maneuvers to optimize their financial situation to strengthen their roster for next season. Not only are they focused on cutting players who can save them money, but they are also clearing the roster from any traces of Bill Belichick as they enter a new era without him.

With that objective, the Patriots are releasing veteran special teams standout Chris Board, according to Tom Pelissero.

Patriots News: Belichick Favorite Chris Board to Be Released

Chris Board had joined the Patriots in the 2023 offseason after Belichick called him "the best special teams player" the Patriots faced that year. The special teams stud had said Belichick's words had meant a lot and played a role in his decision to join New England.

He had previously spent time with the Baltimore Ravens and the Detroit Lions, almost exclusively as a special teams player, before signing with the Patriots on a two-year, $6.7 million contract.

The 28-year-old North Dakota State standout is no longer needed in Foxborough as the Patriots preferred to create $1.96 million in cap space instead of keeping Board around. $937,500 in dead money will be left on the books while he is allowed to sign with another team in free agency.

Board appeared in every game for the Patriots last season and played in 89% of special teams snaps.

The Patriots have to make good use of their cap space in free agency to give themselves a chance to compete next season. As of now, they are not given a shot to win the AFC East on FanDuel Sportsbook with +1700 odds. Head over there, claim your sign-up bonus, and back the Patriots if you want to take advantage of these odds.

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