Patriots Release Linebacker Jahlani Tavai

The New England Patriots have released linebacker Jahlani Tavai, according to reports from MSN on March 11, 2026. Tavai, a 29-year-old who originally entered the NFL as a second-round pick, had been with the Patriots since 2021.

Early Career and Draft

Jahlani Karl Tavai was born on September 28, 1996, in Inglewood, California. He played college football for the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors from 2014 to 2018. Tavai was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the second round (43rd overall) of the 2019 NFL Draft.

Time with the Detroit Lions

After being drafted by Detroit, Tavai played for two seasons before being released at the end of training camp in 2021.

Joining the New England Patriots

Following his release from the Lions, Tavai was signed by the New England Patriots to their practice squad on September 1, 2021. He was later activated to the 53-man roster on October 13, 2021, reuniting him with his former head coach from Detroit, Matt Patricia. Patriots.com confirms this transition.

Patriots Career and Recent Injury

During his time with the Patriots, Tavai played in 107 games with 67 starts, accumulating 432 total tackles, 5.5 sacks, 4 interceptions, 14 passes defensed, 6 forced fumbles, and 2 fumble recoveries. He played in 12 games with seven starts last season, finishing with 34 total tackles and 1 forced fumble. However, on August 26, 2025, the Patriots placed Tavai on injured reserve, and he was later activated from the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list on July 23, 2025, according to Pro-Football-Reference.

Player Profile

Tavai is 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighs 255 pounds. He is the younger brother of J.R. Tavai and the older brother of Justus Tavai. Wikipedia provides further details on his personal background and college career.