Patriots Cut Former Broncos Player Ahead of AFC Championship

Bassyonni

Published: January 25, 2026 9:50 AM ET

Patriots Cut Former Broncos Player Ahead of AFC Championship

The New England Patriots recently made significant roster changes as they prepare for the upcoming AFC Championship against the Denver Broncos. This move follows a series of player reassignments and injuries that have impacted the team’s lineup.

Roster Updates Before AFC Championship

On Saturday, the Patriots announced that they elevated two players from the practice squad to the active roster:

Defensive lineman Leonard Taylor III
Running back D’Ernest Johnson

Additionally, defensive lineman Joshua Farmer (hamstring) and running back Terrell Jennings (concussion) remain on injured reserve. However, wide receiver Mack Hollins, who has an abdominal injury, was activated off injured reserve, providing a much-needed boost to the receiving corps.

Player Releases and Injuries

In a surprising decision, defensive lineman Eric Gregory was placed on injured reserve. Furthermore, wide receiver Trent Sherfield Sr. was released from the practice squad after spending just 11 days with the team.

Sherfield’s release comes just before a critical match against his former team, the Denver Broncos. Previously, he played for Denver this season, recording three receptions, including one touchdown, before being cut on November 15.

In a somewhat similar instance, linebacker Darrell Taylor experienced a brief tenure with the Patriots. He was also released shortly after spending nine days with the organization, following the team’s victory over the Houston Texans in the divisional round.