After Learning He’s Part of Trade Talks, IR Superstar Antonio Gibson Expresses Desire to Stay and Play for Patriots Even If It Means Pay Cut – and Patriots Leadership’s Response Leaves Fans Speechless

Foxborough, Massachusetts – 1/11/2025

News that left Patriots Nation silent on Friday morning: Antonio Gibson – the star currently on injured reserve (IR) after an ACL tear in Week 5 – has been confirmed as part of New England’s trade plans ahead of the 11/4 deadline. But instead of a negative reaction, Gibson moved the entire locker room with his deeply sincere words.

According to a Boston Herald source, when he learned the team was considering sending him to Tennessee in a swap for Tyjae Spears, Gibson proactively met with the coaching staff and expressed his desire to remain with the Patriots – even if it meant accepting a pay cut. In the brief conversation that was revealed, he said: “I don’t want to leave Foxborough. I love this team, love this locker room. If that means I have to cut some salary to stay, I’m willing. I just want to contribute, to fight for this logo one more time.”

Those words brought tears to the eyes of more than a few teammates and staff members. Gibson, though unable to return to the field yet, is still regarded as one of the most positive influences in the Patriots locker room – a player who constantly encourages rookie Drake Maye and helps shape the fighting culture in Coach Mike Vrabel’s young roster.

However, the response from Patriots leadership left fans utterly choked up. According to ESPN, the organization “has not made a final decision” and “will consider every option for the long-term benefit of the team.” A generic answer that neither confirms nor denies – but enough to create a heavy atmosphere at Gillette Stadium.

The deal considered “the most worthwhile” if it happens would look like this: Patriots receive: Tyjae Spears (RB, Titans) + 2026 seventh-round pick. Titans receive: Antonio Gibson + 2026 sixth-round pick (conditional).

Strategically, it’s a sensible trade – the Patriots get a young, healthy RB ready to play, while the Titans add veteran experience . Henry and gain a draft choice. But emotionally, it’s a tough equation no one in Patriots Nation wants to solve.

One person on the team whispered to a reporter after practice: “He (Gibson) may not be suiting up this week, but his heart still beats for the Patriots.”

And sometimes, it’s that – not the numbers on a contract – that leaves fans unable to speak.