Robert Kraft makes clear statement about Jabrill Peppers’ arrest
Jan 20, 2019; Kansas City, MO, USA; New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft watches from the sidelines before the AFC Championship game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft made a clear statement about safety Jabrill Peppers’ future with the team after Peppers was arrested last weekend on drug and assault charges.
Peppers was arrested early Saturday on charges of assault and battery, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, strangulation and possession of cocaine. Peppers has denied the allegations, and his attorneys claim to have evidence that will exonerate him.
In an appearance on “The Breakfast Club” podcast Friday, Kraft addressed the allegations. The Patriots owner did note that Peppers maintained his innocence and had the right to go through the legal process, but that Peppers would be “gone” if the charges are true.
“[The NFL will] do their independent checking. We’re doing ours,” Kraft said, via TMZ Sports. “If what was reported is true, he’s gone.
“The easiest thing would have been to cut him right away but we’re trying to measure nine times and do right by him. If the facts are as been reported publicly, then he’s not with us.”
Peppers is effectively out indefinitely as the investigation continues, as he has been placed on the Commissioner Exempt List.
The 29-year-old Peppers is in his third season with the Patriots. He has been one of the anchors of the team’s defense, which is why he was rewarded with a 3-year, $30 million contract this offseason.
