The NFL can be a tough business. Some would even say it's cutthroat, as decisions are made based on what's best for the organization. One of those tough choices was made on Monday, as the New England Patriots made a roster cut decision on a player who had just bounced back from injury.

Reports indicate that punter Bryce Baringer is being released by the Patriots, according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network. Baringer just came off the IR and has been with the franchise for three seasons. But now, his time in New England is done.

“The Patriots are releasing their punter of the previous three seasons, Bryce Baringer, source says,” Rapoport reported. “He's been on Injured Reserve, but is healthy now.”

The 27-year-old initially joined the Patriots as a sixth-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. He appeared in 51 games for the team over a three-year span, accumulating 8,976 net yards with 41.1% of his punts going inside the 20-yard line. Throughout his career, Baringer has averaged 47.9 yards per punt.

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Baringer had been dealing with an undisclosed lower-body injury he sustained in the preseason. He has not yet made his debut for the 2026-27 campaign. The Patriots elevated Mitch Wishnowsky from the practice squad to the active roster on September 22, and Wishnowsky has maintained the punter role for the club so far this season.

With Baringer released, the former Michigan State Spartan is free to sign with any team in the NFL. While he navigates free agency, the Patriots shift attention to Week 8, when the club will face off against the Miami Dolphins on the road.