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Film Review | Brian Hoyer Spotlights Drake Maye vs. Arizona Cardinals 

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Alex Van Pelt 12/19: "It's all about progression and getting better each week"

DeMarcus Covington 12/19: "Every time we get out on the field is an opportunity for us"

Chris says so Long to Patriots

Veteran defensive end Chris Long took to Instagram to say goodbye to Patriots Nation.

Mar 01, 2017 at 07:42 AM
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Paul Perillo

Patriots.com Writer

INDIANAPOLIS – Not all of the Patriots-related news came out of the Combine on Wednesday. Veteran defensive end Chris Long, who is scheduled to become a free agent when the league year begins on March 9, took to Instagram to put an end to his one-year Patriots career, posting the following this afternoon.

Thank you Pats Nation. As a player you've given so much support to, I owe you an explanation as to why I'll be moving on in FA... even if it isn't a big deal. This year and this opportunity gave me a ton. I made lifelong friends in a great locker room and became a champion. I'm so thankful that Coach B (the GOAT) took a chance on me and allowed me the opportunity to play a small part in this wonderful year. This has zero to do with money, etc. It's the right move in my heart because I want to get back to being the player I was before. I'm thankful for my role this year, but as a competitor, I'm itching to do what I do best. It was important to say thank you personally. You may not remember me much, but I'll always remember y'all!! #driveforfive #missionaccomplished

A post shared by Chris Long 🆑⚡️ (@laflamablanca95) on

Long was a part-time player in New England and might be looking to expand his role elsewhere after winning a Super Bowl in his first trip to the postseason. The soon-to-32-year-old Long finished his one season with the Patriots with 35 tackles and four sacks.

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