One of the weaknesses of the 2017 New England Patriots was the team's depth at the linebacker position, especially after defensive signal caller Dont'a Hightower and former first round draft pick Shea McClellin were placed on season-ending injured reserve. But while the former will return next season, the latter will likely not.
Source: the Patriots have released veteran LB Shea McLellin.
McClellin, who was released with a failed physical designation, was placed on injured reserve in September after suffering what appears to be a serious concussion at one point during the preseason.