FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — The New England Patriots made significant roster adjustments Thursday, claiming rookie defensive tackle Eric Gregory off waivers while parting ways with veteran safety Jabrill Peppers in a series of moves that reshape their depth chart.
New Addition Brings Promise
The Patriots claimed Gregory from the Cincinnati Bengals after the rookie was waived earlier this week. The 24-year-old Arkansas product brings impressive college credentials, having played 61 games with 44 starts over six seasons with the Razorbacks.
Gregory’s college statistics showcase his versatility and production: 135 total tackles, 9½ sacks, three passes defensed, and one interception. At 6-foot-3 and 319 pounds, he provides the Patriots with a young, developmental option along their defensive line.
Cincinnati originally signed Gregory as an undrafted free agent on May 9, 2025, before releasing him on August 28, making him available for New England’s waiver claim.
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Veteran Departure Marks End of Era
The most notable move involved releasing Jabrill Peppers from the 53-man roster, ending the veteran safety’s three-year tenure with the organization. The 29-year-old Michigan product joined New England as an unrestricted free agent in April 2022 after previous stops with Cleveland and the New York Giants.
Peppers brought extensive experience to the Patriots, having played 99 NFL games with 85 starts across eight seasons. His career statistics include 494 total tackles, 5½ sacks, seven interceptions (one returned for a touchdown), 35 passes defensed, six forced fumbles, and six fumble recoveries.
Additionally, Peppers contributed significantly on special teams throughout his career, returning 87 punts for 719 yards and 34 kicks for 749 yards.
Practice Squad Adjustments
The Patriots also made changes to their practice squad, releasing guard Jack Conley while signing tackle Thayer Munford Jr.
Munford, 25, brings NFL experience after being drafted by Las Vegas in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Ohio State. The 6-foot-5, 354-pound lineman has appeared in 46 NFL games with 18 starts, demonstrating versatility by playing 11 games at right tackle, five at left tackle, and two as a tackle-eligible tight end.
The Las Vegas Raiders released Munford on August 27, making him available for New England’s practice squad signing.
Strategic Implications
These moves reflect the Patriots’ ongoing evaluation process as they finalize their roster construction. By claiming Gregory, they’re investing in young defensive line depth while creating salary cap flexibility through Peppers’ release.
The addition of Munford to the practice squad provides experienced offensive line depth, particularly valuable given his versatility across multiple positions and special packages.
These roster moves demonstrate New England’s commitment to balancing veteran leadership with young talent as they prepare for the upcoming season.
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