Linebacker Shea McClellin has been released by the New England Patriots with a failed physical designation. The designation comes after missing the entirety of the 2017 season due to repeated concussions, which landed McClellin on injured reserve. In total, he only played 14 games with the Patriots.
The Patriots have released veteran LB Shea McClellin with a failed physical designation, ESPN's Field Yates reports. McClellin missed the entire 2017 season (concussion), as he had been one of the team's designated-to-return players on injured reserve… https://t.co/2ouBQg371W
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) March 19, 2018
Linebacker Shea McClellin Released by New England Patriots
While his tenure with New England was short, his contributions at linebacker were appreciated. In 2016, he was the only player to make Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker miss a field goal attempt. Less than a month later he made Patriots history by delivering a 69-yard fumble return against the Miami Dolphins. During his time with the Patriots, McClellin had recorded 41 tackles, one sack, and became a Super Bowl champion in the Patriots stunning comeback win over the Atlanta Falcons in Super Bowl LI.
The news that McClellin’s injuries are still having an impact on his ability does not bode well for his career in the larger scope of things. Injuries have haunted McClellin since he started playing in the NFL, and some fans believe this release could signal the end of his career.
https://twitter.com/mcckshea/status/975867133744726018
New England’s Linebacker Lineup
Before the announcement of his release, many Patriots fans were eager to see McClellin return to the field. His return, as well as the return of Dont’a Hightower, would have been hugely helpful. However, the loss of McClellin doesn’t exactly mean tragedy for the team.
With the return of Hightower and Harvey Langi next season, I don’t feel that free agent or draft additions are entirely necessary right now. The only free agent linebacker the Patriots should worry about signing (or re-signing) is Marquis Flowers. In week 16, Flowers recorded 10 tackles and 2.5 sacks in the win over the Buffalo Bills.
Kyle Van Noy and Elandon Roberts weren’t terrible substitutes for Hightower and McClellin last year. Roberts and Van Noy racked up 140 tackles and nearly eight total sacks combined during the 2017 season.
Hightower will likely return as the top linebacker for New England. Van Noy and Roberts should see an increase in activity as well. Flowers, if re-signed, should be able to cover up any gaps left open by McClellin’s departure. Langi should also be returning from injury next season and will likely serve as rotational depth alongside Nicholas Grigsby.
