The New England Patriots have decided to part ways with rookie free agent defensive end John Morgan, marking an early end to his time with the team. Morgan, who had signed with the Patriots as an undrafted free agent, was hoping to make an impact and secure a spot on the team’s roster, but the organization has opted to release him as they continue to evaluate their roster heading into the regular season.
John Morgan’s journey to the NFL was a challenging one. After going undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft, Morgan was given an opportunity by the Patriots to prove himself during training camp and preseason activities. His signing with New England represented a significant moment for the young defensive end, as he aimed to fulfill his dream of playing professional football. The Patriots, known for their history of finding hidden gems among undrafted players, gave Morgan a chance to showcase his skills and potentially carve out a role on their defensive line.
However, the competition at the defensive end position in New England is fierce, with several established veterans and promising young players all vying for limited spots on the roster. Throughout training camp and preseason games, Morgan had to compete against these players, making it difficult to stand out. Despite his efforts, it appears that the Patriots did not see enough from Morgan to warrant keeping him on the roster as they move closer to finalizing their lineup for the upcoming season.
The decision to release Morgan is part of the Patriots’ ongoing process of trimming their roster down to the required 53 players. NFL teams face tough decisions during this time, as they evaluate the performance, potential, and fit of each player within their system. While Morgan’s release may come as a disappointment, it is not uncommon for undrafted players to face an uphill battle in making an NFL team.
For John Morgan, this setback could be a temporary one. Many players who are released during the preseason find opportunities with other teams, either through practice squads or by signing with a different organization. Morgan may still have a chance to continue his NFL career, whether with the Patriots in the future or with another team looking to add depth to their defensive line.
