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What releasing Chris Board means for the Patriots

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The New England Patriots’ first reported move of free agency week is releasing a core member of their special teams operation.

Chris Board, who was tied for the team lead in kicking game snaps a year ago, will be released at the start of the new league year on Wednesday. Board originally joined the Patriots as a free agent in 2023, but just one year into his original two-year contract is on his way out of town again.

What does the transaction mean for New England from a big-picture perspective, though? Let’s find out.

The kicking game turnover continues

Traditionally one of the steadiest units in football, the Patriots’ special teams group hit a rough patch over the last few years.