Patriots Add DE Darrell Taylor, Release RB Elijah Mitchell from Practice Squad
The New England Patriots have made significant roster changes, adding veteran defensive end Darrell Taylor while releasing running back Elijah Mitchell from their practice squad. This move marks a strategic shift as the Patriots look to strengthen their defensive line.
Patriots Sign DE Darrell Taylor
Darrell Taylor, 28, joins the Patriots after spending time with the Houston Texans. He was initially drafted by the Seattle Seahawks as a second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. Taylor hails from Tennessee and stands at 6 feet 4 inches, weighing 255 pounds.
During his career, Taylor has participated in 69 regular season games, starting 13 of them. His impressive stats include:
- Total tackles: 118
- Sacks: 24.5
- Passes defensed: 5
- Forced fumbles: 8
- Fumble recoveries: 1
This season, Taylor faced challenges, featuring in only four games for the Texans due to an injury that led to his placement on injured reserve.
Elijah Mitchell Released from Practice Squad
Elijah Mitchell, 27, was released after being signed to the Patriots’ practice squad on December 23. He entered the NFL as the 194th overall pick in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, selected by the San Francisco 49ers from Louisiana.
Throughout his career, Mitchell has played in 28 games with 12 starts. His career highlights include:
- Rushing attempts: 327
- Rushing yards: 1,523
- Touchdowns: 9
- Receptions: 28
- Receiving yards: 158
- Receiving touchdowns: 1
After his time with the 49ers, Mitchell signed with the Kansas City Chiefs in the offseason of 2025. However, he appeared in only one game before being released.
Conclusion
These roster changes reflect the Patriots’ ongoing efforts to enhance team performance. The addition of Taylor could prove beneficial in strengthening their defensive strategy moving forward.
