Veteran RB Drafted in the 3rd Round Refuses Invitation to Return to the Patriots, Eyes Buffalo Bills – Fans Speculate It’s a Revenge Move After Serious Injury

Foxborough, Massachusetts – Former New England Patriots running back Antonio Gibson is creating a stir after refusing an invitation to return on a lower contract from his former team, instead aiming toward the Buffalo Bills – a direct rival in the AFC East. The decision has Patriots fans speculating: could this be a “revenge” move after being released just months following a severe ACL injury?

Gibson joined the Patriots in 2024 on a three-year contract worth $11.25 million, quickly becoming a versatile weapon in the backfield and on special teams. He made his mark with 1,407 kick return yards and one touchdown across two seasons, while also supporting Rhamondre Stevenson effectively in a rotational role.

But everything changed during the 2025 season. Gibson started strong with 106 yards and one touchdown through five games, until he suffered a torn ACL on a kick return against the Buffalo Bills on October 5, 2025. He missed the rest of the season, was placed on injured reserve, and faced a long recovery timeline of 9–12 months.

The Patriots decided to release Gibson on February 23, 2026, saving roughly $3.1 million in cap space while absorbing about $1 million in dead money. The team prioritized young running backs such as TreVeyon Henderson and kept Stevenson as the primary starter, leaving Gibson as an unrestricted free agent at age 28.

“After the ACL injury happened right there at Highmark Stadium, they released me just to save cap space without giving me a full chance to rehab within the system,” Gibson said in a recent interview. “I want to go somewhere where my value is truly recognized — a fresh start to prove I still have explosive ability.”

Gibson’s blunt comments quickly sparked controversy. Many fans believe that targeting the Bills — a team currently looking for running back depth and special teams help around quarterback Josh Allen — could be his way of getting back at the Patriots for letting him go too soon after such a major injury.

Gibson’s future remains open. The Bills could sign him to a low-risk, high-reward contract if his physical checks out. If that happens, the storyline could intensify every time he faces the Patriots. For New England, the situation highlights the ongoing challenges of salary-cap management and long-term injury decisions during the rebuild under Mike Vrabel.

Whether this becomes a true comeback story or simply an emotional chapter remains to be seen. The 2026 season will provide the answer.