The Patriots and linebacker Raekwon McMillan have reached terms on a new contract Friday that will keep McMillan from hitting unrestricted free agency next week, according to a report from The Boston Globe.

McMillan, 27, will enter his third season with the Patriots after originally signing as a free agent in 2020. He missed that season with a torn ACL, then bounced back to post 35 tackles, a QB hit and one fumble recovery in 16 games with one start last season. McMillan’s return adds depth at inside linebacker, where the Pats are expected to lose fellow backup Mack Wilson in free agency.

Starters Ja’Whaun Bentley and Jahlani Tavai are both under contract for next season, though Bentley’s deal runs only through 2023.

Earlier Friday, the Patriots released punter Jake Bailey, and safety Devin McCourty announced his retirement after 13 NFL seasons.