The Pittsburgh Steelers might be preparing to sign free agent safety Jabrill Peppers. This change follows DeShon Elliott’s injury, which will have him sidelined for the Week 2 home opener against the Seattle Seahawks. At a Tuesday news conference, head coach Mike Tomlin broke the news. He talked with tremendous conviction about Peppers’ potential to help the Browns’ defense go from terrible to terrifying.
He was picked 25th overall by the Cleveland Browns in the 2017 NFL Draft. He’s earned a ton of experience during his eight-year career with stops with the Cleveland Browns, New York Giants and most recently with the New England Patriots. He spent the last three seasons in New England and made 26 starts there. Last month, he got cut on a surprise on cut-down day.
The 2024 season was a rollercoaster for Peppers, as he played just six games after being put on the commissioner’s exempt list following assault and battery charges. He mounted a vigorous defence and was cleared by jury in a January trial. In that short season, he made an interception, two passes defensed, a forced fumble, and two tackles for loss. He achieved this outstanding feat while facing constant foot and hamstring injuries.
Tomlin acknowledged Peppers’ rare all-around talents when he was in college at Michigan. He did an excellent job playing him to showcase his versatility.
“I think maybe his Michigan plays probably stand out more than his professional plays,” – Mike Tomlin
Peppers’ ability to play both defensive back and linebacker roles aligns with Tomlin’s vision for enhancing the Steelers’ run defense. The coach emphasized the need for improvement in this area as the team prepares for their next match-up against Seattle.
“He’s a football player first, positional player second,” – Mike Tomlin
Peppers has always excelled at stuffing the stat sheet. He compiled seven interceptions, six fumbles forced, seven fumbles recovered and 511 tackles. His experience and skill set will be key as the Steelers navigate life without Elliott.
Peppers’ signing is more than just a reaction to Elliott’s injury. It would be further exhibit A in Tomlin’s long-standing effort to attract players that truly can change the complexion of a game. Previously, Tomlin has discussed his contrarian approach to drafting players in the early rounds. As he firmly explained here, “I do not want to pick that high.”
Let’s get to know Peppers, who will be new to the Steelers roster! Both fans and analysts are eager to watch the impact his on-field return will have on the team’s defensive scheming and performance as a unit. Having overcome adversity and been underestimated at every turn, Jabrill Peppers will be ready to answer the call as Pittsburgh prepares to face their biggest tests yet.
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