Patriots
Peppers was added to the injury report with a hip injury on Saturday.
Jabrill Peppers could miss Sunday’s season opener against the Bengals with a hip injury. Matthew J. Lee/Globe Staff
The Patriots could be without one of their defensive leaders for Sunday’s season opener against the Bengals.
Jabrill Peppers was added to the Patriots’ injury report and downgraded to questionable for Sunday’s game with a hip injury, the team announced Saturday.
It’s unclear exactly when the Patriots safety injured his hip. Peppers wasn’t listed on the injury report at all during the week, indicating he was a full participant in all three practices. Of course, something likely changed between the end of Friday’s practice and before the Patriots’ trip to Cincinnati.
If Peppers can’t play in the season opener, it would obviously be a huge blow to a New England team that can’t afford many players. Peppers was arguably the Patriots’ most consistent player on defense in 2023. He had the fourth-most combined tackles (78), two interceptions and one forced fumble. His 87.3 defensive grade on Pro Football Focus was also the highest on the team and fifth-highest among all safeties.
Additionally, Peppers was one of the few high-profile Patriots players who didn’t have to deal with an injury that cost them significant time in 2023. He played in 15 games and was on the field for 84% of their defensive snaps.
Peppers was recently named captain of the Patriots. It was the first time Peppers has earned the honor since signing with the Patriots in 2022, with head coach Jerod Mayo previously commenting on his leadership.
While Peppers’ leadership has been lauded by coaches and players, his most notable improvement on the field was in pass coverage last season. In addition to the two interceptions, opposing quarterbacks completed 20 of 34 passes for just 132 yards and a touchdown when throwing in Peppers’ direction, according to PFF.
So having Peppers available would certainly be beneficial for the Patriots as they face one of the league’s best passing attacks. However, New England could get a break this weekend in that regard. Receiver Ja’Marr Chase said he’s a game-time decision for Sunday’s game after returning to practice this week following his multi-week “holdout.” If he does play, Chase said he’ll get a limited number of snaps.
Tee Higgins, another Bengals receiver, was injured in practice this week. After missing Friday’s practice, Higgins was listed as doubtful for Sunday’s game with a hamstring issue.
If Peppers is unable to play Sunday, Jaylinn Hawkins or undrafted rookie Dell Pettus could see their snap counts increase. The Patriots could also call up AJ Thomas, who is the only safety on their practice squad.
Sign up to receive Patriots updates🏈
Get the latest news and analysis delivered to your inbox during football season.
