"The 29-year-old linebacker spent five seasons with New England. He had back-to-back seasons with 110 tackles or more in 2023 and 2024 before seeing a reduced role in 2025. He was the team's recipient for the 2025 Ed Block Courage Award, given to the player who best exemplifies the principles of courage and sportsmanship."
"The Patriots said, when announcing the award, that he had soft tissue injuries in the offseason that forced him to miss time during training camp. During his recovery, he was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease. He eventually returned to the Patriots lineup."
"Tavai played in 12 games this season, the fewest of his career. He recorded 42 tackles with a forced fumble. He played 22 percent of New England's defensive snaps last season, trailing Christian Elliss, Harold Landry, Jack Gibbens, and Anfernee Jennings."
The New England Patriots released 29-year-old linebacker Jahlani Tavai after five seasons with the team. Tavai had recorded over 110 tackles in both 2023 and 2024, establishing himself as a defensive cornerstone. However, his 2025 season saw a dramatic decline in his role. He played in only 12 games, the fewest of his career, and recorded 42 tackles with one forced fumble while playing just 22 percent of the team's defensive snaps. Tavai faced significant personal and health challenges during the offseason, including soft tissue injuries, a rare autoimmune disease diagnosis, and the tragic loss of his unborn daughter in December. Despite receiving the 2025 Ed Block Courage Award for exemplifying courage and sportsmanship, his diminished performance and role led to his release.
Read at Boston.com
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