In a league where versatility is gold and adaptability is survival, veteran safety Jabrill Peppers has consistently brought both.
Now 29, Peppers was released by the New England Patriots in what CBS Sports called “a surprising move” — and he’s hitting the open market at the same time the San Francisco 49ers are searching for stability at safety.
Niners Wire’s Mike Masala is among those who believe the Niners should be interested in signing Peppers.
“The 49ers should consider signing Peppers before Week 1, as he could help fill in for Malik Mustapha, who is starting the year on PUP while recovering from a torn ACL,” Masala wrote on August 29. “Once he gets fully acclimated to Robert Saleh’s defense, he could be a starter, and when Mustapha comes back, he can still play a large role in what would then be a pretty decent rotation in the secondary.”
Peppers Has Carved Out an Impressive NFL Career
GettyJabrill Peppers could be a nice free agency signing for the San Francisco 49ers.
Peppers entered the NFL as the 25th overall pick in the 2017 draft by the Cleveland Browns. Over his first three seasons, he became known for his versatility, playing meaningful snaps on defense, special teams and even as a returner when needed.
His 2019 trade to the New York Giants brought more of the same, as he continued in a hybrid role, filling gaps across the secondary and stepping up in run support, while also creating the occasional game-swinging turnover.
Peppers signed with New England on a one-year prove-it deal after tearing his ACL in 2021. That first year in Foxborough was steady if unspectacular, as he played all 17 games and logged 60 tackles while working his way back to full strength in a rotational role. The 2023 season, however, marked a bit of a resurgence. Peppers became a full-time starter, netting 78 tackles, eight pass breakups, two interceptions, a forced fumble and a sack.
In 2024, Peppers suffered a hamstring injury and dealt with some off-field issues after he was arrested for domestic violence and cocaine possession in October. He was subsequently placed on the NFL’s Commissioner’s Exempt List and eventually cleared of all charges, but he wound up playing in just six games as a result. He finished with 40 tackles, an interception, two pass breakups and a forced fumble in six starts.
Why the San Francisco 49ers Should Sign Free Agent Safety Jabrill Peppers
For the 49ers, Peppers would bring the kind of versatility Robert Saleh loves to have on defense. He can cover tight ends, serve as an enforcer in the box and provide value as a situational pass rusher.
The 49ers also value leadership and experience, especially in a secondary that has seen turnover in recent seasons. With Talanoa Hufanga gone, Peppers could provide some veteran stability and guidance for the 49ers secondary. He has already served as a team captain in New England, and he has played an impactful role wherever he has landed.
The move makes financial sense, too. With the Patriots still paying him over $4 million in guaranteed money, Peppers could be had for minimal cost and short-term commitment, offering high upside with little risk.
Put simply, this would be a textbook move for John Lynch. At this stage of his career, Peppers isn’t just depth—he’s a proven playmaker who could elevate San Francisco’s backend and give the 49ers one more versatile weapon in their push for another NFC title run.
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