Patriots cut Jabrill Peppers after August trade chatter, clearing the way for Woodson and Hawkins to open Week 1 at safety as New England faces the Raiders. Dugger remains on the roster but slides into a backup role, signaling a scheme shift away from Peppers’ fit under the new staff.

With Dell Pettus and Brenden Schooler behind them, the Patriots lean toward versatile talent over veteran consistency. For fantasy, that means Peppers’ exit narrows his floor, while Hawkins/Woodson could offer value if early-season snaps land their way, and Dugger’s usage will be a key watch in Week 1.

New England released Jabrill Peppers, a surprise move that clears significant cap space while reshaping the Patriots’ safety corps. Peppers, once atop New England’s aggressive scheme, carried a $4.32 million guarantee as the club pivots under Mike Vrabel. The savings—$1.46M in 2025 and $6.75M in 2026—gives the Pats flexibility to chase upgrades or keep core pieces intact. Peppers’ Pro Bowl 2023 production contrasted with an uneven 2024 season marked by controversy and injury, leaving his exit as a strategic reset rather than a blip.

In Peppers’ absence, the Patriots’ safeties now center on Kyle Dugger, Jaylinn Hawkins, Dell Pettus, Brendan Schooler, and rookie Craig Woodson. New England’s defense remains multifaceted, with Peppers’ versatility leaving a void for a unit that thrives on cross-training and physical play on early downs. The move signals more roster tweaks ahead as New England finalizes its 2025 plan.