Jabrill Peppers was released by the New England Patriots in a move Coach Bill Vrabel framed as a team-first decision to “get it right” for the roster. Vrabel stressed the decision wasn’t driven by scheme as New England shifts to a deeper-zone safety approach, prompting questions about fit for Peppers. Peppers’ spot on a defense that used preseason as a signal of plan seems to open opportunities for Jaylinn Hawkins and rookie Craig Woodson, with Kyle Dugger and Dell Pettus rotating in the back end. The clearing creates a clearer path for Hawkins to emerge as a key role player and for Woodson to make early-season impact, while Dugger remains the main playmaker in the backfield and Pettus works back from injury.

As Peppers departs, the Patriots’ safety depth chart consolidates around deep-zone needs, and the depth chart shake invites savvy fantasy managers to monitor snap counts and package usage. Week 1 roles could hinge on Hawkins’ ascent and Woodson’s rookie readiness, with Dugger in the box and Pettus contributing in sub-packages. This is a notable roster pivot that could influence which Patriots safeties are trusted in key packages and how fantasy points might be distributed in early weeks.