New England Patriots safety Jabrill Peppers has been officially placed on the NFL Commissioner’s Exempt List, effectively sidelining him from any practices or games for the foreseeable future. This decision follows Peppers‘ recent arrest on allegations of domestic violence involving his girlfriend.

The NFL announced the move on Wednesday, just days after Peppers was detained in Braintree, Massachusetts. Court documents indicate that during a dispute that arose after an intimate encounter, a woman accused Peppers of becoming violent, claiming he placed his hands on her neck and pushed her head against the wall.

Despite these serious allegations, Peppers has asserted his innocence. After pleading not guilty to the assault charges in a Massachusetts courtroom on Monday, his attorney voiced confidence in Peppers‘ impending exoneration.

“We have evidence that completely contradicts the alleged victim’s story, and I expect my client to be fully exonerated,” the attorney declared.

Consequences of his exempt list status

With his placement on the Commissioner’s Exempt List, the 29-year-old defensive back is prohibited from participating in team activities.

However, he will continue to receive his salary during this time. Notably, Peppers was absent from the Patriots’ recent game against the Miami Dolphins and will remain inactive as he navigates the legal process.

Peppers‘ next court appearance is scheduled for November, and the outcome of these proceedings could have significant implications for his career and future with the Patriots.

As the legal situation unfolds, both the NFL and the Patriots organization will closely monitor developments, underscoring the ongoing issues related to player conduct and domestic violence within the league. Fans and teammates alike will be watching closely as this situation continues to evolve for Peppers.