5 Patriots Fans Will Be Sad to See Leave in Free Agency

Several Patriots are due to hit free agency when it opens in March. While Pats fans will be happy to see some players leaving, expect to see tears shed if these players leave New England.

DE Anfernee Jennings is one of four Patriots who fans will be sad to see leave in free agency. / Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports

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4. Anfernee Jennings, DE

A former third-round selection in 2020, Anfernee Jennings is someone who always had potential but need the right situation to prove it. Fortunately, he got just that in 2023 with starting edge rusher Matthew Judon missing the majority of the campaign with a torn biceps.

Jennings didn't look out of place while a career-high in both defensive snaps (677) and starts (14) last season. The former Alabama defender was all over the field, racking up 66 total tackles, 14 tackles for lost yardage, 1.5 sacks, and a fumble recovery. He was also terrific against the opposition's ground game, earning an 85.9 run defense grade — fifth-best among edge rushers.

After a breakout campaign, it wouldn't be surprising if Jennings tested free agency. An outside suitor could be willing to pay him big bucks for a standout performance, which could be a price that the rebuilding Patriots might not be willing to match.

While having a 100% healthy Judon next season would lessen the blow, Patriots fans will likely experience quite a bit of pain if Jennings continues to ball out elsewhere.

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