The New England Patriots made a surprising move on Friday. According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, the organization has released veteran safety Jabrill Peppers. Many will view this as a shocking decision, as Peppers was expected to provide veteran leadership under Mike Vrabel. Adding to the surprise, Peppers still has $4.32 million guaranteed remaining on his contract.
Peppers has been a steady presence in the league, starting 85 games in his career, including 26 with New England. Over the years, he has accumulated more than 500 tackles, seven interceptions, six forced fumbles and seven fumble recoveries.
Many are stunned by Peppers' release because just a few weeks ago, he was speaking enthusiastically about playing under Vrabel.
"It's crazy because his first meeting with us, when he talked about establishing the identity, I only had to add maybe one or two things [to the notebook]," Peppers told ESPN. "We see football the same way. We think it should be played the same way."
In May, Mike Vrabel had lavished high praise on the veteran safety.
"I love Jabrill's energy. I like his passion for the game. I like his energy when he comes in the building," the coach said. "Those things are all very positive."
He was widely expected to be projected as a starter. However, the reasons behind his release at this time remain unclear.