The 2025 NFL draft is officially behind the league as all 32 teams continue navigating the fallout. Not only did the Atlanta Falcons pull off a strong draft performance, but they've also done a good job of signing promising undrafted free agents, ranging from Kansas cornerback Cobee Bryant to San Jose State wideout Nick Nash.
The influx of rookies — both drafted and undrafted — is exciting for fans, however, that isn't the case for some veteran players. After all, roster spots must be created for incoming first-year players, meaning teams are often forced to kick underperforming vets to the curb to create room.
That's exactly what just happened to a former Falcons receiver who was sent packing by his new team post-draft.
Patriots Release Former Falcons WR JaQuae Jackson After NFL Draft
NFL insider Aaron Wilson reported on Monday afternoon that the New England Patriots have released several players following the 2025 draft, including former Falcons wideout JaQuae Jackson.
#Patriots release Jake Andrews, Marcus Harris, JaQuae Jackson, Titus Leo, Mark Perry, Giovanni Ricci
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) April 28, 2025
Jackson, 25, began his career with the California (PA) Vulcans, posting 148 catches for 2,210 receiving yards and 22 touchdowns across three seasons before transferring to Rutgers University for his senior year. He posted a 22-361-1 stat line in his lone season with the Scarlet Knights, which was good enough to convince the Falcons to add him as a UDFA following the 2024 draft.
Jackson's time in Atlanta didn't last long, though. He was waived at the start of June, only to be claimed by the Patriots two days later. He suffered a serious leg injury before the preseason ended, and didn't suit up for a single regular-season game, spending the year on the practice squad instead.
It'll be interesting to see if any playing opportunities emerge for Jackson this summer. Teams around the league are constantly looking to flesh out their WR depth, and it wouldn't be shocking if a general manager wanted to use a training camp invite on him (even if it's only to be a warm body during practice).
With the post-NFL draft fallout continuing, chances are that more ex-Falcons players might be at risk of losing their jobs. Only time will reveal which veteran will be unlucky enough to be next.