Michael Jordan Gets Released by New England for a Third Time

Michael Jordan was cut from the New England Patriots 53-man roster twice this season. The first time was to make room for four waiver claims a day after the offensive guard made the Patriots’ initial 53-man roster. He joined the active roster again on Sept. 16 and remained there until Nov. 26, when he was cut a second time. Once again, the Patriots re-signed Jordan to the practice squad.

On Tuesday, the team released Jordan from the practice squad. This would seem to end his time as a member of the New England Patriots, at least for the 2024 season.

Jordan played in 12 games for the Patriots this season, starting 11 at left guard. Only tight end Hunter Henry started more games at a position for New England’s offense in 2024. Offensive lineman Mike Onwenu, like Henry, started all 13 games, but his time was split between right guard and right tackle.

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Pro Football Focus ranked Michael Jordan No. 44 in pass-blocking, No. 61 in run-blocking, and No. 59 overall among the 61 offensive guards to play at least 400 snaps this season.

New England’s Offensive Guard Situation

After Bill Belichick’s firing, Eliot Wolf made Michael Jordan his first signing on Jan. 24, 2024. Jordan previously played for Cincinnati, Carolina, and Green Bay, though he never appeared in a game with the Packers, spending the 2023 season on their practice squad.

Jordan started the first two games of the season for New England as a practice squad elevation. Projected starter Sidy Sow was battling an ankle injury suffered in preseason. But aside from Week 4, Jordan retained the starting left guard spot even when Sow was available. He did not relinquish his starting spot for good until Week 13, when rookie Layden Robinson was inserted into the starting lineup.

New England elevated Jordan for their most recent game against Indianapolis. He played seven snaps (one on offense and six on special teams).

With the departure of Michael Jordan, the New England Patriots maintain depth at the guard position. Mike Onwenu and Layden Robinson appear to be atop the depth chart at right and left guard, respectively. Other guards available on the 53-man roster include Lester Cotton, Sidy Sow, and Tyrese Robinson. Liam Fornadel remains with the Patriots practice squad, and Cole Strange continues to work his way back from the PUP list.