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Patriots Lose Key Linebacker for Start of 2026 Season
31 Aug
Summary
- Harold Landry placed on PUP list for 2026 NFL season opener.
- Landry led Patriots with 8.5 sacks in the 2025 season.
- Team seeks replacements for starting edge rusher role.

As the 2026 NFL season approaches, the New England Patriots have made a significant roster decision regarding linebacker Harold Landry. The team confirmed that Landry has been placed on the physically unable to perform list, as reported on August 31, 2026. This designation means he will be unavailable for at least the initial four weeks of the upcoming season.
Landry was a vital player for the Patriots in the 2025 season, where he led the team in sacks with 8.5. His contributions also included 10 tackles for loss and 19 quarterback hits. With Landry sidelined, the Patriots will rely on veteran Dre'Mont Jones, Elijah Ponder, and potentially rookies Gabe Jacas and Quintayvious Hutchins to fill the void at the edge rusher position.
The team faces the challenge of adjusting its defensive strategy to compensate for Landry's absence. The performance of other defensive players and any potential additions from the practice squad will be crucial in the early weeks of the 2026 campaign.