The New England Patriots are releasing a veteran safety, but not the one most expected.
The Pats are parting with Jabrill Peppers, New England announced Friday afternoon.
Peppers started 26 games over three seasons with the Patriots, compiling three interceptions, 10 passes defensed, two forced fumbles, a sack and 178 tackles. A former first-round pick in Cleveland in 2017, Peppers has generated seven career picks and 511 tackles over 99 games in eight seasons, including 85 total starts with the Browns, Giants and Patriots.
The move comes a little more than a year after Peppers inked a three-year, $25 million extension. There was still $4.32 million remaining in guaranteed money on his deal for 2025.
Peppers ran with the starting group during training camp but was a questionable fit in the new scheme under defensive coordinator Terrell Williams. Veteran Kyle Dugger, who was demoted and considered a cut candidate, remains on the roster.
Moving on from Peppers means the Pats could be slated to start fourth-round rookie Craig Woodson and Jaylinn Hawkins -- a sixth-year pro with 22 career starts -- at safety.
The decision to cut Peppers underscores that coach Mike Vrabel and Co. don't fear moving on from any holdover they deem an ill fit.
