Patriots Release Undrafted Free Agent Signing

The Patriots signed Pene through the NFL's International Pathway Program, as the defensive tackle was born in Tours, France, so he was not holding a roster spot.

Therefore, the move does not create any extra space on New England's full 90-man roster.

Prior to signing with the Patriots, Pene played four years at Virginia Tech. The Hokie played in 47 games, accumulating 73 tackles, 10 TFLs, five sacks, and a pass defended.

With the release of Pene, despite not taking a roster spot, the Patriots' roster is set for the start of training camp in July. New England replaced the spot vacated by the retirement of Wes Schweitzer earlier this week with the signing of offensive lineman Yasir Durant.

Durant, who previously spent time with the Patriots in 2021, won the UFL championship with the DC Defenders this spring.

The next organized activities for the Patriots will be training camp, beginning in July when the rookies report on July 19, the veterans on July 22, and the first day of practice getting started on July 23.

During that time, new head coach Mike Vrabel and his staff will cut their roster from 90 players down to 53 to get ready for the start of the 2025 NFL season.

There's a lot of anticipation for the Patriots in 2025, coming off back-to-back four-win seasons. With quarterback Drake Maye in his second year, an entirely new coaching staff, a strengthened defense, and new weapons on the offense, the Patriots will look to start a rebuild in New England.