The Patriots are releasing linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley, according to sources.

Bentley, 28, was a four-time captain in his seven seasons with the Patriots. He was selected in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft and appeared in 83 games with the team, registering 509 tackles, 10.5 sacks, two interceptions, 11 pass breakups, four forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, 21 tackles for loss and 29 QB hits.

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Releasing Bentley frees up $4.6 million in salary cap space for the Patriots, while they take on $1.8 million in dead money. He was entering the final year of a two-year, $13.4 million contract extension.

Bentley played just two games in 2024 before suffering a season-ending torn pectoral. He was fully cleared from the injury over the weekend, according to ESPN.

The Patriots are switching defenses this season, and Bentley, who was listed at 6-foot-2, 250 pounds, isn’t the traditional fit for what head coach Mike Vrabel and defensive coordinator Terrell Williams look for in a linebacker.

The Patriots signed linebackers Robert Spillane and Jack Gibbens this offseason and retained linebacker Christian Elliss on a two-year, $13.5 million deal.

Monty Rice and Jahlani Tavai also remain on the Patriots’ roster at linebacker.

Long snapper Joe Cardona is now the only player on the roster who has won a Super Bowl with the Patriots.