Jabrill Peppers offered his first comments to the media after he was surprisingly released by the New England Patriots.
“It is what it is, sometimes you’re not good enough,” the safety, now with the Pittsburgh Steelers, told reporters. “You play a long time in this league, you’re going to get traded or cut.”
Peppers was one of the Patriots’ top safeties during his three seasons in New England. The 29-year-old often delivered big hits and showcased his athleticism every week.
In six games for the Patriots in 2024, Peppers had one interception and 40 total tackles.
The decision to cut Peppers caused a lot of questions as to why the move was made. Patriots coach Mike Vrabel denied the narrative it was a scheme fit, and Peppers’ off-field issues that led to his captaincy being stripped reportedly weren’t part of the problem, either.
“It is what it is. I’m happy (Steelers coach Mike) Tomlin made the call,” Peppers said. “He’s definitely a coach that I said I wanted to play for before I retire, and it just happened a lot sooner than I thought. I’m happy to be here.”
Peppers now joins the 1-0 Steelers with a defense that includes Jalen Ramsey, Darius Slay, Joey Porter Jr. and TJ Watt. He’ll also fill a need for safety depth that Pittsburgh lacks.
It won’t take long for Peppers to face his former team. The Patriots host Pittsburgh in Week 3.
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