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New England Patriots organization, team captain and safety Jabrill Peppers was arrested Saturday on multiple charges, including assault, strangulation, and drug possession. The 29-year-old NFL veteran, who recently signed a three-year, $30 million contract extension, was arraigned Monday at Quincy District Court.
According to Braintree Police Department records, officers responded to a domestic disturbance call early Saturday morning. The incident resulted in one person requiring medical attention at the scene, though details about the victim's condition remain undisclosed. Law enforcement officials reported finding what they believe to be cocaine during the arrest.
"He called me that morning. We've informed the NFL what was going on and we're still gathering information," head of Patriots coaching, Jerod Mayo informed WEEI radio. When pressed about potential roster changes, Mayo remained noncommittal, stating, "I don't think anyone knows the facts or anything like that. It's a process."
Peppers' legal team has begun mounting a defense, with his attorney telling local news outlet WCVB that they possess evidence that "sheds real doubt on the allegations." The three-time team captain pleaded not guilty and was released on $2,500 bail.
The timing of the incident coincides with Peppers being downgraded from questionable to out for Sunday's game against the Miami Dolphins, which the Patriots lost 15-10. This arrest adds to the mounting pressure on a Patriots team that has lost three straight games and appears to be in disarray. Earlier in the week, team podcast host Evan Lazar had suggested the organization was "teetering on mutiny" due to internal conflicts.
A team spokesperson issued a brief statement: "We are aware of the incident involving Jabrill Peppers over the weekend in which the police are currently investigating. We will have no further comments at this time."
The former Michigan standout, drafted by Cleveland in 2017, joined the Patriots in 2022 after stints with the Browns and New York Giants. His arrest marks another setback for a franchise struggling to maintain its footing in the post-Bill Belichick era under first-year head coach Mayo.
The Patriots organization faces difficult decisions regarding Peppers' future with the team, while the NFL will likely conduct its own investigation under the league's personal conduct policy. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges professional athletes face and the consequences of off-field actions in the high-stakes world of professional football.
