Overview
- The Patriots released veteran safety Jabrill Peppers on Friday despite $4.3 million remaining in guarantees on his contract.
- Head coach Mike Vrabel told reporters the move was not a scheme-fit issue, calling it a difficult, team-focused decision without offering specifics.
- Peppers responded on X by asserting he can be effective in any system after nine NFL seasons under multiple head coaches and coordinators.
- With Peppers gone, New England plans to lean on Jaylinn Hawkins and fourth-round rookie Craig Woodson at safety, with Kyle Dugger working back to full strength.
- Cap analyst Miguel Benzan (Patscap) estimates the release creates about $1.46 million in 2025 cap space and $5.25 million in 2026, while Peppers enters free agency after serving as a 2024 captain and later being acquitted of violent charges.