Patriots Release Veteran Safety Peppers, Cut Two Receivers After Roster Deadline

The New England Patriots have made significant roster changes ahead of the 2025 NFL season, releasing veteran safety Jabrill Peppers and wide receivers Kendrick Bourne and Javon Baker. Peppers, who signed a three-year extension in 2024 but faced off-field legal issues and missed several games last season, was released despite having over $4 million guaranteed remaining on his contract. Bourne, after requesting his release, was let go following a decline in production since his strong first season with the Patriots; Baker was also waived in a surprise move that reduced the wide receiver room from eight to six. These moves occurred shortly after final roster cuts and have reshaped the team's lineup as they prepare for their season opener against the Las Vegas Raiders. Meanwhile, the Patriots' first practice after roster cuts saw most players present except for injured cornerback Christian Gonzalez, signaling readiness for the upcoming season. The Patriots' willingness to make abrupt changes highlights a strategic approach to roster management under head coach Mike Vrabel as they aim to improve performance in 2025.