FOXBOROUGH - News of J abrill Peppers’ release came as a shock last week.

Patriots coach Mike Vrabel, addressing Peppers departure for the first time, was highly complimentary of the veteran safety.

So what led to the decision?

“Well, I think these things are tough decisions. We’re just trying to get it right,” Vrabel said. “I have a lot of respect for Jabrill as a person and as a player. And what we felt like was in the best interest of the team at this point, was allowing him to have another opportunity elsewhere.

“There’s a lot of things that go into these decisions. They’re never easy. We’re just trying to get it right collectively. There’s a personal side and a professional side. We talked about that with the players this morning. And whether you agree with it or disagree with

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