When the New England Patriots released former starting safety and team captain Jabrill Peppers in late-August and then later traded away their other starter at the position from 2024, Kyle Dugger, in late-October, part of the reasoning behind the moves was the improvement of Jaylinn Hawkins. These decisions have paid off for the team, as Hawkins has gone from a role player and special teamer during the previous year to one of the NFL's top five safeties in 2025, according to Pro Football Focus' rankings.
It is a nice change of pace in New England at this point in the season to be focused on the playoffs rather than already looking ahead to free agency and the NFL Draft. But that doesn't mean it's too early to eye some of the top candidates that will inevitably be on their radar, including a wide receiver like Alec Pierce.
New England's defense is No. 7 in the league in total defense (302.4 yards allowed per game), No. 5 in points allowed (19.5 per game), tied for No. 7 against the run (104.1 yards allowed per game), and No. 10 against the pass (198.3 ypg). Ewers (39 of 60, 485 yards, two touchdowns, two interceptions, 87.2 passer rating) has been calm and composed in his previous two starts, compiling a 1-1 record.