The Patriots’ safety depth for the 2025 season features a blend of established veterans, key special teams contributors, and promising young talent. With a renewed focus on utilizing free and strong safeties in the scheme, Mike Vrabel and Eliot Wolf emphasized the position in free agency and the draft.
The Patriots were able to add competition and depth to a position that was already well stocked.
Now it is a matter of letting the players at the position compete and figure who will fit into what roles on the back end.
Here is a look at the safeties on the Patriots’ 2025 roster and what we can expect this season.
Kyle Dugger, SS, Lenoir-Rhyne, 6’1 216
Dugger is expected to continue as a primary starter at strong safety. He signed a four-year, $58 million contract prior to last season. Dugger is versatile in that he can play over the top or screw down and play the run. He can be a factor in run support and contribute effectively in coverage. His versatility makes him a linchpin in the Patriots’ secondary. Dugger needs to
Jabrill Peppers, FS, Michigan, 5’11 197
Peppers had a tough 2024 season. He was dogged by injuries and legal troubles. He is back, healthy and as far as we know, his legal problems are on the back burner. He can focus on football now. Peppers is expected to start alongside Dugger but he will face competition from veteran free agent addition Marcus Epps and Jaylinn Hawkins who was resigned by the Patriots. Peppers versatility is a plus as he can play over the top and as a box safety but he will have a lot to prove, both on and off the field once camp kicks off.
Marcus Epps, FS, Wyoming, 6’0 195
Veteran safety Marcus Epps joined the Patriots on a one-year deal in March 2025, reuniting with former head coach Josh McDaniels. Epps, who was a starting free safety and team captain under McDaniels in Las Vegas, is expected to provide valuable depth in the secondary and contribute on special teams. Despite playing only three games in 2024 due to an ACL tear, he is anticipated to be fully ready for training camp, adding an experienced presence to the safety group.
Craig Woodson, S, Cal, 6’0 200
A fourth-round pick (No. 106 overall) in the 2025 NFL Draft. The rookie safety out of Cal has played a lot of football and is versatile. Woodson finished with 45 solo tackles, two interceptions and nine pass breakups last season. He can play over the top in certain coverages and can screw down or break the huddle as a box safety and support the run. Woodson will also play on all the special teams units. He has the look of a player that fits the Patriots Way and will be in New England for a long time. It will take some time for Woodson to carve out a role but in time, he will make impact
Jaylinn Hawkins, SS, Cal, 6’1 208
Hawkins proved to be valuable contributor last season both in terms of being a depth piece, spot starter and making an impact in sub packages. He was also one of the Patriots top special teamers last season. Hawkins contributions as a special teamer is a big reason why the team brought him back. He will once again be counted on to wear a lot of different hats this season.
Josh Minkins, SS, Cincinnati, 6-2 207
An undrafted free agent signing in 2025, Minkins inked a three-year contract with the Patriots. As an undrafted rookie with no guaranteed money, Minkins will face an uphill battle to make the 53-man roster. He is likely viewed as a developmental prospect who will compete for a practice squad spot, focusing on showcasing his potential during training camp and the preseason.
Brenden Schooler (SS/Special Teams Specialist), 6’2 210, Texas
Brenden Schooler is one of the best players on the Patriots. He was recognized for his exceptional play by being invited to the 2025 Pro Bowl Games as a specialist, earning acclaim as one of the best gunners in football. Schooler’s value extends beyond special teams, as he has also been utilized in a gadget defensive role, including as a quarterback spy and blitzer. He finished with 9 solo tackles and two sacks. His strong special teams play secured him a three-year, $9 million contract extension last off-season.
Dell Pettus, S/NB, 5’11 200, Troy
Pettus made the Patriots as an undrafted free agent and made an immediate impact both in sub packages as a safety and slot safety and on special teams. He finished with 19 solo tackles and two passes defended. He will have some stiff competition in camp to make the team but Pettus cannot be counted out. He can do a lot of different things within a defensive scheme and contribute in a myriad of ways.