Patriots parting ways with another veteran after Stefon Diggs release

The New England Patriots reportedly will not tender restricted free agent cornerback Alex Austin , according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz. As a result, the veteran defensive back is now set to become an unrestricted free agent.

Austin, a former seventh-round 2023 NFL draft pick for the Buffalo Bills , signed with the Patriots late in his rookie season and quickly emerged as a solid depth piece for the team.

He started in six games total for the Patriots and racked up 31 tackles, eight passes defended and one interception in 29 games played. Unfortunately, injuries plagued his 2025 run with the team.

With the arrival of Carlton Davis III , Austin saw his defensive snaps decrease to 20 percent, while his special teams contributions increased to 39 percent. So he's clearly a player capable of helping on both fronts as a cornerback and a special-teamer.

The Patriots could look to add more depth in the defensive backfield with Austin's exit, or they could be leaning on the return of Marcellas Dial Jr., who went down with a torn ACL last year.

"Forever love in New England ! God’s Plan… looking forward to what he has next," Austin posted on X .

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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Patriots parting ways with another veteran after Stefon Diggs release