From growing up poor and homeless in Jacksonville, the former offensive MVP—once cut by the Patriots wrote a fairy tale when he signed to New England's official 53-man roster

Foxborough, Massachusetts – October 2025

Some NFL stories aren’t just about football—they’re about grit, faith, and loyalty. Terrell Jennings, 24, is living that moment right now. The running back who was once cut by the Patriots, who hit rock bottom, is now on the verge of being officially announced on the New England Patriots’ 53-man roster after completing the final formalities.

Jennings grew up in Jacksonville, Florida, in a poor family and at one point struggled with homelessness as a teenager.

“Sometimes I slept on benches outside the football field,” he once shared in an interview while at Florida A&M. “But right there, I promised myself—if I ever got a chance, I’d never waste it.”

Undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft, Jennings signed with the Patriots as a no-name rookie. He was cut during training camp, only to return to the practice squad weeks later—quietly grinding, persevering, and waiting for his shot. Last season, he was elevated to the active roster, played in three games, made a few impressive runs, and now—he’s about to be rewarded for that journey with a real contract.

“I love this team,” Jennings said emotionally after Monday morning practice. “The Patriots are my family. I was once just a forgotten name, but they believed in me, and now I just want to repay that faith with everything I’ve got.”

Head coach Mike Vrabel was full of praise:

“He works nonstop. Every practice, every snap—Jennings shows he belongs here.”

From a homeless kid in Jacksonville to the doorstep of the NFL, Terrell Jennings’ journey is proof of the power of belief—that no dream is too far if you keep running toward it.

And now, as the Patriots prepare to announce the new contract, Jennings isn’t just earning a roster spot—he’s reclaiming the life he always dreamed of. 🏈💙