New England Patriots safety Jabrill Peppers. Eric Canha-Imagn Images
The Pittsburgh Steelers wasted little time shoring up their secondary after safety DeShon Elliott suffered a knee injury in Sunday’s 34-32 win over the New York Jets. Elliott exited late in the first half and was later ruled out, leaving a major hole in the back end of Pittsburgh’s defense. On Monday, the Steelers agreed to terms with veteran safety Jabrill Peppers, a former first-round pick who most recently played for the New England Patriots.
Peppers’ Journey to Pittsburgh
Peppers, drafted 25th overall in 2017, brings eight years of NFL experience with the Browns, Giants, and Patriots. He spent the past three seasons in New England, starting 26 games and earning a three-year, $24 million extension before New England released him on cutdown day last month under new head coach Mike Vrabel.
The 29-year-old appeared in just six games last season while facing assault charges — which the court later ruled not guilty — and battling foot and hamstring injuries. Despite the shortened campaign, Peppers still managed an interception, two passes defensed, a forced fumble, and two tackles for loss.
Across his career, Peppers has produced 511 tackles, seven interceptions, six forced fumbles, and seven fumble recoveries, showcasing versatility as both a physical run defender and coverage safety. He was also graded as the seventh-best strong safety of 2024 by Pro Football Focus.
A Low-risk, High-upside Addition
Peppers’ release came as a surprise around the league, and his availability offered Pittsburgh a unique opportunity. The Patriots remain responsible for paying him $4.32 million guaranteed in 2025, which could allow the Steelers to bring him in at a team-friendly rate.
His skill set fits well with Mike Tomlin and defensive coordinator Teryl Austin’s scheme, providing both veteran leadership and immediate depth. With the Steelers boasting one of the NFL’s toughest early schedules, Peppers’ ability to step into a starting role or rotate across multiple safety spots is a crucial boost.
Familiar Path for Steelers
This signing aligns with Pittsburgh’s long-standing approach of adding proven veterans to stabilize key positions when injuries strike. Peppers’ versatility and experience in multiple defensive systems make him a seamless fit for a unit built on toughness and adaptability.
The move also sets up an intriguing storyline: Peppers will face his former team in Week 3, when the Steelers travel to New England.
What it Means for the Defense
The Steelers have made no official announcement on Elliott’s timeline for return, but signing Peppers suggests his absence could extend beyond a week-to-week basis.
For a team that leans heavily on its defense to set the tone, adding Peppers ensures Pittsburgh won’t lose stability in the secondary. As Tomlin looks to keep his defense sharp through a grueling schedule, Peppers could prove to be one of the most important midseason pickups of 2025.
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