The Pittsburgh Steelers have bolstered their secondary by signing veteran safety Jabrill Peppers, who was unexpectedly released by the New England Patriots on August 29, 2025. Peppers, 29, had previously signed a three-year, $24 million extension with the Patriots in 2024 but faced a challenging season, appearing in only six games due to injuries and a league suspension. Over his 99-game career, Peppers has accumulated over 500 tackles, seven interceptions, and 35 passes defensed, playing for the Cleveland Browns, New York Giants, and Patriots. He was originally drafted 25th overall by the Browns in 2017 out of Michigan.
Peppers' acquisition comes at a critical time for the Steelers, following the injury of starter DeShon Elliott, who suffered an MCL sprain during the season-opening win against the New York Jets. Elliott is expected to be sidelined for several weeks, making Peppers' experience and versatility a valuable addition to the team's defensive lineup. Head coach Mike Tomlin also confirmed that rookie Derrick Harmon and linebacker Malik Harrison will remain out due to knee injuries ahead of their Week 2 game against the Seattle Seahawks.
In other league developments, the Philadelphia Eagles have signed veteran pass rusher Za'Darius Smith to a one-year deal. This move aims to strengthen the Eagles' pass rush following the offseason departures of Brandon Graham and Josh Sweat . Smith, a three-time Pro Bowler, played for both the Cleveland Browns and Detroit Lions in 2024, recording nine sacks and 17 quarterback hits over 17 games. Throughout his 140-game NFL career, Smith has compiled 69 sacks, 173 QB hits, 333 tackles , and 10 forced fumbles.
The NFL's international season kicked off with a thrilling matchup in São Paulo, Brazil, where the Los Angeles Chargers secured a 27-21 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. Despite strong support for the Chiefs from local Brazilian fans, the Chargers seized early momentum, with quarterback Justin Herbert and kicker Cameron Dicker leading the charge. Kansas City's star Patrick Mahomes struggled in the first half, contributing to a 13-6 deficit at halftime. The second half saw a more aggressive effort from the Chiefs, including an 11-yard Mahomes touchdown run and a touchdown pass to Travis Kelce, though the team faltered on extra point and two-point conversion attempts. The Chargers responded with another touchdown from Quentin Johnson and held off the Chiefs' late attempts to equalize.
The Miami Dolphins are under significant pressure to end a 25-year playoff win drought—the longest active streak in the league. After a disappointing 8-9 finish in 2024 that saw them miss the playoffs for the first time under head coach Mike McDaniel, the team's leadership is under scrutiny to turn things around. Key losses in free agency include safety Jalen Ramsey, running back Raheem Mostert, tight end Jonnu Smith, safety Jevon Holland, and defensive end Calais Campbell. To replenish the roster, the Dolphins brought back safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, drafted running back Ollie Gordon II, and added wide receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, quarterback Zach Wilson, and tight end Darren Waller. The season opener is against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, with hopes resting on quarterback Tua Tagovailoa's health and the potential revival of the team's high-scoring offense.
In a global sports roundup, the NFL season kicks off with renewed global ambition, featuring a record seven international games and high-drama matchups, including Aaron Rodgers' return against his former team, now donning Pittsburgh colors. The Philadelphia Eagles aim to defend their title, while icons like Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce hunt for glory.
## Latest NFL News and Updates:
– [Report: Steelers signing veteran S Jabrill Peppers]
– [Eagles sign veteran pass rusher Za'Darius Smith]
– [Chargers stun Chiefs in Brazil as NFL opens international season]
