## Patriots Safety Jabrill Peppers Removed from Exempt List, Cleared to Practice and Play
**FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (August 15, 2023)** – The New England Patriots announced today that safety Jabrill Peppers has been removed from the exempt list and cleared to practice and play. Peppers had been on the exempt list since the start of training camp due to personal reasons.
### Patriots Bolster Defense with Peppers’ Return
Peppers’ return is a significant boost to the Patriots’ defense, which was already considered one of the strongest in the NFL. The 27-year-old safety is a versatile defender who can play both free safety and strong safety. He is known for his hard-hitting tackles and ability to make big plays.
In 2022, Peppers had 114 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 2 forced fumbles for the Panthers. He was a key part of the Panthers’ defense that finished 10th in the NFL in yards allowed per game.
### Peppers Excited to Join Patriots
Peppers expressed his excitement about joining the Patriots in a statement released by the team.
“I’m thrilled to be a part of this organization,” Peppers said. “The Patriots have a rich tradition of winning, and I’m looking forward to contributing to that success. I’m ready to get to work and help this team win a championship.”
### Patriots Seek to Build on 2022 Success
The Patriots are coming off a successful 2022 season, in which they finished 14-3 and won the AFC East division title. They advanced to the AFC Championship Game, where they lost to the Cincinnati Bengals.
With the addition of Peppers, the Patriots’ defense is even more formidable. The team is hoping to build on its success from last season and contend for a Super Bowl title in 2023.
### Analysis and Outlook
Peppers’ return gives the Patriots one of the best safety tandems in the NFL. He will likely start alongside Devin McCourty, who is entering his 14th season with the team.
The Patriots’ defense is already strong up front with players like Matthew Judon and Christian Barmore. The addition of Peppers to the back end gives them a complete and balanced defense.
The Patriots are considered one of the favorites to win the AFC East in 2023. With Peppers now on the roster, their chances of making a deep playoff run have increased significantly.