Patriots release John Saunders Jr. after acquiring safety Jaylen Reed

The New England Patriots released safety John Saunders Jr. as part of final roster cuts before the 2026 NFL deadline. Saunders led the team with five interceptions during training camp practices but was ultimately left off the initial 53-man roster. The team adjusted its secondary following a trade that brought Jaylen Reed from the Houston Texans in exchange for wide receiver Kayshon Boutte. New England’s safety depth chart currently features Kevin Byard III and Craig Woodson, while Dell Pettus retained a spot due to his extensive special teams workload. The team may attempt to sign Saunders to the practice squad if he clears waivers.

• 1:27 AMYahoo Sports — Patriots Cut Unlikely Training Camp Interception Leader After Roster Shakeup