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Replay: Patriots Unfiltered Wed Nov 20 - 02:00 PM | Thu Nov 21 - 11:55 AM

10 to Watch: Patriots Look to Break Through vs. Tua, Dolphins

Patriots Gameplan: Prepping QB Drake Maye and the Pats Defense for Sunday's Matchup vs. the Dolphins in Miami

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After Further Review: Breaking Down QB Drake Maye's Performance and the Patriots Defense in Sunday's Loss to the Rams

Patriots Activate CB Alex Austin and Release CB Marco Wilson

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
headshot-paul-perillo-final
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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