According to ESPN’s Mike Reiss, Peppers’ name surfaced in trade discussions earlier in August, but with no deal materializing, the team ultimately just had to cut ties a week before the 2025 NFL season kicks off.
Patriots Shift Defensive Philosophy
Under new head coach Mike Vrabel, New England is reshaping its secondary. Vrabel and defensive coordinator Terrell Williams want safeties who can play deeper coverage, rather than the downhill, physical style that Peppers and fellow veteran Kyle Dugger specialize in. That shift pushed Peppers down the depth chart behind Jaylinn Hawkins and rookie Craig Woodson, both better fits for the new scheme.
Going on 9 years in this league. I’ve had 7 HCs & 6 DCs lol There is no scheme you can place me in where I won’t find a way to be effective.
— JP5 (@JabrillPeppers) September 1, 2025
Peppers’ Response to His Release
Peppers, 29, didn’t hold back after his release, posting on X that no scheme could limit his effectiveness after playing under seven head coaches and six defensive coordinators in nine years. His former teammate Ja’Whaun Bentley backed him up, questioning a system that couldn’t find room for one of New England’s most physical defenders.
Drake Maye on Jabrill Peppers
— Savage (@SavageSports_) September 2, 2025
🎥: @WEEIAfternoons
"There's two sides to it. You care about the person and the relationship you had with Pep…you know they're trying to do what's best for this football team this year."
Wise man.
pic.twitter.com/n0L3c8jalR
While his $4.3 million guaranteed salary stays on New England’s books, Peppers is now a free agent. A three-year Patriot and former first-round pick, he’s logged 178 tackles, two interceptions, and two forced fumbles with New England, proving he still has starter-level ability.
The question now is which team will view his toughness and versatility as the missing piece in their secondary.
Photo Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
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