The New England Patriots focused on defense during Day 3 of the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting safety Craig Woodson from California with their fourth-round pick. Woodson, a fifth-year senior, showcased impressive versatility with a solid performance last season, recording 70 tackles, 9 pass breakups, and an impressive Pro Football Focus coverage grade of 88.5.

Despite having depth at the safety position, the Patriots lack a true free safety, especially after Devin McCourty's retirement. Woodson's ability to play multiple roles makes him a valuable asset, potentially stepping into a starting role in the future. With returning starters Jabrill Peppers and Kyle Dugger, along with other safeties on the roster, Woodson is expected to contribute significantly on special teams as well.

Brian Belichick, the New England Patriots' safeties coach for the past five seasons, will not return for the 2025 season. The youngest son of former head coach Bill Belichick has been with the team for nine years, progressing from personnel assistant to safeties coach. His coaching style has been praised, notably by safety Jabrill Peppers, who noted his high standards and unique perspective on the game.

Under new head coach Mike Vrabel, who replaced Jerod Mayo after a disappointing season, the Patriots are in the midst of a coaching transition. Vrabel has brought in Terrell Williams as the defensive coordinator and is exploring options regarding the retention of Belichick and cornerbacks coach Mike Pellegrino. Bill Belichick, meanwhile, is set to start his first season at the University of North Carolina.

New England Patriots safety Jabrill Peppers has been acquitted of assault and battery charges following a trial stemming from an incident in October. Peppers testified that he did not choke or push a woman who accused him of assault. The woman claimed Peppers attacked her after an altercation involving phone calls to her. Video evidence depicted Peppers asking her to leave his home, which contributed to the case. Peppers's attorney argued that the allegations were financially motivated due to a pending civil lawsuit against him.

During the trial, Peppers admitted to cocaine possession, a charge that may be dropped if he avoids legal troubles in the coming months. The Patriots previously placed Peppers on the commissioner’s exempt list due to the incident, which caused him to miss seven games this season. Despite the legal issues, Peppers signed an extension with the Patriots that runs through 2027.

New England Patriots safety Jabrill Peppers was acquitted of assault and battery charges in a Massachusetts jury trial. Testifying in his defense, Peppers denied allegations made by a woman who claimed he assaulted her after a dispute about phone calls made to her while they were in bed. The woman testified that Peppers choked her, slammed her against the wall, and pushed her down the stairs. She described her emotional experience during the incident, including Peppers filming her as she attempted to leave. Despite the woman's testimony and police reports supporting her claims, Peppers maintained that she was trying to ruin his career. The case was further complicated by a civil lawsuit filed against Peppers by the woman, seeking $9.5 million. Following the incident, Peppers was placed on the commissioner’s exempt list, missing seven games this season. He had previously signed a contract extension with the Patriots.