Patriots release veteran defensive end Darrell Taylor from practice squad

January 23, 2026 - 22:02

The New England Patriots have released veteran defensive end Darrell Taylor from their practice squad. The move comes just weeks after Taylor joined the organization ahead of the AFC divisional round of the playoffs, a postseason run the Patriots did not ultimately make.

Taylor, a former second-round pick by the Seattle Seahawks in 2020, arrived in New England with the hope of providing depth and experience to the defensive front. During his four seasons with the Seahawks, he appeared in 50 games, starting 21, and accumulated 21.5 sacks along with 103 total tackles. His release indicates the team is looking in a different direction as they continue their offseason roster adjustments.

This transaction opens a spot on the Patriots' practice squad as the team's new front office regime, led by de facto general manager Eliot Wolf, continues to evaluate and shape the roster for the upcoming season. Taylor will now look to catch on with another club as free agency continues. For New England, the search for consistent pass-rush help remains an ongoing priority heading into the NFL Draft and the next waves of free agency.