1 Patriots Star Reinstated by NFL

The New England Patriots have been going through a frustrating rebuilding process ever since quarterback Tom Brady left, but for the first time since then, they may be seeing a glimmer of the light at the end of the tunnel.

They seem to believe they have found their next franchise quarterback in Drake Maye, the No. 3 overall pick from the 2024 NFL Draft who took over in Week 6, and second-year cornerback Christian Gonzalez may be developing into a star.

Veteran safety Jabrill Peppers could be another cornerstone for the Patriots moving forward, but earlier this season, he was arrested on charges reportedly including strangulation and drug possession.

As a result, he was placed on the commissioner’s exempt list, but he has now been reinstated by the league.

“Jabrill Peppers is now eligible to participate in all team activities, including playing in games,” Mike Reiss of ESPN wrote on X.

The Patriots signed Peppers to a two-year contract, and in his first season with them he recorded eight passes defended, two interceptions, five tackles for loss, two quarterback hits and 78 total tackles (52 solo).

Despite going 4-13 last season, New England’s defense was solid, and it has missed Peppers during his absence.

Now 3-9, the Patriots have one of the worst records in the AFC, and at this point, their fans are perhaps hoping for as many losses as possible so the team can improve its draft positioning.

The Pats have many needs on both sides of the football, and the organization has been discovering how hard it is to rebuild after building a dynasty as they did over two decades.