The Pittsburgh Steelers could have someone new enter the defensive fray amid struggles. Safety Jabrill Peppers, who was signed a week ago, only played on special teams in his first game with the team, but head coach Mike Tomlin said that Peppers could see his role expand defensively this week.
Safety Chuck Clark played in lieu of Peppers while starting strong safety DeShon Elliott has an MCL sprain that he continues to battle.
“I haven’t delved into his specific familiarity with New England,” Tomlin said. ” But certainly, being his second week here, I’m open to expanding the utilization of him, not only as a [special] teamer, but as a defender.”
Peppers chose the Steelers over multiple other teams, and now will have a chance to push for a starting role over the next few weeks. Between the team’s tradition and Tomlin, Peppers says there was no way he could say no to the Steelers.
“It’s certainly a great place, it’s always been a great defense here. Always been great continuity at the head coaching position. Great tradition. So it was a no brainer for me,” Peppers said.
Peppers was the first-round pick for the Cleveland Browns in the 2017 NFL Draft, but only spent two seasons with the team being before moved to the New York Giants. After three seasons with the Giants, he spent the last three years with the Patriots.
Peppers, 29, will turn 30 in October, but is coming off a shortened 2024 season. He played in just six games for the Patriots, nothing 40 tackles, one forced fumble, and one interception. He has seven career picks.
2023 was Peppers’ career-best season, playing in 15 games and having two interceptions and 78 tackles. He has dealt with some injuries over his career.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.