In a bit of a surprise on Monday around 4:00 p.m., the NFL announced the reinstatement of Jabrill Peppers from the Commissioner Exempt List.

This means that Peppers – who as of this past Friday had a jury trial date set for January 22nd – can participate in team activities, including practices and games. It remains to be seen whether the Patriots will welcome him back when the team practices this week.

Back on October 7, police in Braintree announced Peppers had been arrested after answering a call for a disturbance at a residence. Peppers was charged with ‘assault and battery. assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, strangulation and possession of a Class B substance believed to be cocaine.’

The full statement from the NFL on Monday reads as follows:

“The National Football League today removed Jabrill Peppers of the New England Patriots from the Commissioner Exempt List. Peppers has missed seven games since being placed on the list on October 9.

“Peppers, who was not permitted to practice or attend games while on the list, is now eligible to participate in all team activities, including playing in games.

“In accordance with the Personal Conduct Policy, the league initiated a preliminary investigation into an incident from early October. That review will remain ongoing and is not affected by this change in Peppers’ roster status.”