It’s never a good sign when a player seemingly takes a shot at their employer on social media.
Professional athletes often use cryptic online posts to voice frustrations when they can’t say outright what’s on their mind. That seems to have been the case with wide receiver Jalen Reagor, who was recently let go by the New England Patriots.
Though Bill Belichick no longer holds full control at the Patriots, his no-nonsense approach to team culture might still influence the organization. One of those principles? Zero tolerance for disgruntled employees.
On Tuesday, the Patriots officially announced the release of Reagor from their practice squad, just hours after a mysterious Instagram post raised eyebrows. Reagor shared a popular meme often used in sports circles to symbolize a great player stuck on a struggling team. The image? A Bugatti Veyron parked in front of a mobile home.
Shortly after the post went live, the Patriots announced Reagor’s release. The timing raised speculation about the connection between his social media activity and the decision. In a post on X, Patriots commentator Carlos Talks Pats said, “You have to wonder if the veteran wide receiver is unhappy being on New England’s practice squad.”
The Patriots’ press release made no reference to Reagor’s Instagram post, and since the announcement, Reagor has deleted both the meme and all other content from his Instagram account.
Reagor’s career began with high hopes when he was selected 21st overall by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2020 NFL Draft—one pick ahead of now-superstar Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings. In his rookie season, Reagor posted 31 receptions for 396 yards and a touchdown in 11 games. The following year, he added 33 catches for 299 yards and two touchdowns across 17 games.
However, his performance did not meet expectations, and he was traded to the Vikings in 2022. In Minnesota, Reagor saw limited action, catching just eight passes for 104 yards and one touchdown. In 2023, he found a new home with the Patriots, though his time there was also short-lived. After making the Patriots’ 53-man roster in August, he was released and re-signed to the practice squad.
With Reagor’s departure, the Patriots’ wide receiver corps now includes DeMario Douglas, K.J. Osborn, Ja’Lynn Polk, Javon Baker, Kayshon Boutte, and Tyquan Thornton. Veteran receiver Kendrick Bourne remains on injured reserve.
As the Patriots prepare to face Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium this Thursday, Reagor is now a free agent once again. The 25-year-old still has time to revive his career, and some team may see the potential he once showed as a top prospect from Baylor.
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