Cleveland Browns: Jabrill Peppers becoming a defensive weapon

After being moved closer to the line of scrimmage, Cleveland Browns safety Jabrill Peppers is becoming a weapon in the defense.

Cleveland Browns safety Jabrill Peppers already had the aura of being a ‘bust’ after he made very little impact during the 2017 season.

Playing out of position as the free safety last season, Peppers seemed to always be out of the play or taking bad angles that forced him out of the play.

One of defensive coordinator Gregg Williams’ goals this season was to get Peppers playing closer to the line of scrimmage.

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Peppers playing in the box was what made him so good when he played for the University of Michigan. He had the athleticism to play in coverage, but the ferocity to take on blockers and stuff the run.

With Damarious Randall playing free safety, Williams got his wish and now has Peppers playing in the box more. And through five games, Peppers has been making much more of an impact than he did last season.

On the season, Peppers has made 19 total tackles and two passes defended in five games. But he is also bringing energy and making plays that do not show up in the box score.

Over the past few seasons, the Browns have struggled to cover tight ends and running backs. With Peppers playing in the box, he has taken more of those assignments instead of the linebackers.

Peppers athleticism in coverage has made it more difficult for offense’s to take advantage of those match-ups. And unlike in 2017, Peppers is not taking poor angles and not allowing the receiver to make a play or have a chance at getting yards after the catch.

Peppers’ relentless nature is also playing a big role in the Browns stopping the run. He is not afraid to get his helmet in between offensive linemen. Even if he does not make the tackle, the fact that he is plugging a gap or taking on a blocker helps free up someone else to make the tackle.

Against the Ravens, Peppers was also not afraid to be an enforcer. With the Ravens in the red-zone, Peppers laid a massive hit on a Baltimore receiver in the middle of the end-zone. Peppers likes to play with a chip on his shoulder, and he will make some big hits when he plays angry.

Peppers has made a big jump in his production during his sophomore campaign. With his ability to be a hybrid linebacker, he is becoming a weapon in Williams’ aggressive defense.