Patriots defensive standout now uncertain for Sunday game in Cincinnati

The New England Patriots may be without safety Jabrill Peppers for their season opener due to a hip injury. Peppers was a standout player for the team last year, contributing 78 tackles, two interceptions, a forced fumble, and one sack. If he is unable to play, the Patriots may turn to free-agent addition Jaylinn Hawkins or undrafted rookie Dell Pettus to fill his spot in the secondary. Hawkins, who played for the Falcons and Chargers last season, has shown promise in training camp and could potentially start alongside Kyle Dugger in the team’s top defense. Pettus earned his spot on the roster with a strong training camp performance. Peppers’ potential absence would be a significant loss for the Patriots, as he was one of their top performers on both defense and special teams last season. The team will closely monitor his status leading up to the season opener to determine if he will be available to play. Despite the uncertainty surrounding Peppers’ availability, the Patriots are confident in the depth and talent of their secondary to handle any absences as they prepare to kick off the season.

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