Reported by 4 sources

The short version

  • Hassan Haskins was released by the New England Patriots on August 29, 2026.
  • The move coincided with a trade acquiring running back Corey Kiner from the Arizona Cardinals.
  • Multiple sports outlets confirmed the transaction as part of final roster adjustments.

The New England Patriots have officially released running back Hassan Haskins, a move that coincides with the team's acquisition of another running back via trade. The transactions were announced on August 29, 2026, marking a significant shift in the personnel composition of the Patriots' backfield as the team prepares for the upcoming NFL season.

According to reports from NBC Sports and other outlets, Haskins was let go by the franchise shortly after the team finalized a deal with the Arizona Cardinals. The trade brought Corey Kiner to New England, suggesting that the organization is looking to inject new energy or different skill sets into its rushing attack. The simultaneous nature of these moves indicates a deliberate restructuring rather than an isolated roster cut.

News Journal

The official statement from the New England Patriots confirmed both actions in a single announcement. The team noted the acquisition of Kiner and the release of Haskins, providing clarity on the roster changes for fans and analysts. This coordinated approach allows the franchise to manage salary cap implications while addressing positional needs simultaneously.

Hassan Haskins, a veteran presence in the league, had been part of the Patriots' plans leading up to this point. His release comes as teams across the NFL finalize their 53-man rosters, a period characterized by strategic decisions regarding depth and experience. The departure of Haskins removes one option from the running back group, opening space for Kiner to potentially assume a larger role.

Corey Kiner's arrival from Arizona adds a new dynamic to the Patriots' offense. While specific details about his contract or immediate playing time were not fully elaborated in the initial reports, the trade itself signals confidence in his ability to contribute. Teams often look for fresh legs and different styles of play during these final roster cuts, and Kiner represents that change for New England.

The timing of these moves is critical. With the regular season approaching, every roster spot carries weight. The Patriots' decision to part ways with Haskins suggests that the coaching staff and front office have evaluated their options and determined that Kiner offers a better fit for their current strategic goals. This evaluation likely took into account performance in training camp, preseason games, and overall team chemistry.

Reactions from sports media have focused on the implications of this roster shuffle. Analysts are examining how the loss of Haskins' experience might be offset by Kiner's potential. The trade also reflects the broader trend of NFL teams making last-minute adjustments to optimize their lineups before the season begins. These decisions can have lasting impacts on team performance throughout the year.

For Hassan Haskins, this release marks the end of his tenure with the Patriots. He will now seek opportunities with other teams or explore free agency options. His career trajectory and future plans remain to be seen, but his departure from New England is a definitive chapter in his professional journey. The team's focus now shifts entirely to integrating Kiner and preparing for the challenges ahead.

The Patriots' roster moves highlight the fluid nature of NFL personnel management. Trades and releases are common tools used by general managers to refine their teams. In this case, the swap of Haskins for Kiner represents a calculated risk aimed at improving the team's chances of success. As the season draws nearer, all eyes will be on how these new additions perform under pressure.

Ultimately, the release of Hassan Haskins and the acquisition of Corey Kiner underscore the Patriots' commitment to evolving their roster. These decisions reflect the ongoing assessment of player value and team needs. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see how these changes influence the team's performance on the field in the coming weeks.

Sources behind this briefing

Go to the original reporting