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Dec 1, 2024; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; A general overview of the game field with the Pat Patriot throwback logo at Gillette Stadium prior to a game against the Indianapolis Colts. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images
John Jiles and Marshall Lang aren’t the only contributors the New England Patriots are parting ways with following the NFL Draft.
On Tuesday, the six-time Super Bowl champions moved on from a 27-year-old ex-San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs running back.
"The New England Patriots announced that they have released RB Elijah Mitchell," the franchise stated. "Mitchell signed a futures contract with New England on Feb. 11, 2026."
“Mitchell, 27, was signed by New England to the practice squad on Dec. 23, 2025, and released on Jan. 14. He entered the NFL as a sixth-round draft pick (194th overall) by the San Francisco 49ers in the 2021 NFL Draft out of Louisiana.”
“The 5-foot-10, 215-pounder, signed with Kansas City as an unrestricted free agent in the 2025 offseason after four seasons with the 49ers. He played in one game with Kansas City in 2025 before being released on Dec. 20.”
Although remaining with the Patriots wasn’t in the cards for Mitchell, there’s no question he still possesses a bright NFL future. The Louisiana product was outstanding with the 49ers as a rookie, recording 963 rushing yards, five touchdowns, and ensuring he didn’t lose a fumble in 11 games.
Unsurprisingly, San Francisco reached the NFC championship in 2021-22, but was unable to prevail against the Los Angeles Rams on the road.
Mitchell’s production hasn’t been the same since then, but there’s a good chance he’ll land on his feet sooner than later.
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