Jabrill Peppers shines on first-team defense Monday

Jabrill Peppers seized his opportunity on Monday.

With safeties Ed Reynolds and Ibraheim Campbell injured, Peppers shined on the first-team defense. The No. 25 pick in the draft, Peppers is expected to earn a starting spot by season’s end.

Peppers set the tone by blasting receiver Rannell Hall, which was more a result of his momentum than intentionally trying to hurt Hall.

"That is football," Browns coach Hue Jackson said. "You don't want those, but they are going to happen. It is a live period. He was trying to get the ball out. There is no question. He wasn't trying to hurt him. He was trying to tackle him and get him down. Sometimes that is a reflex by players. It is OK."

Peppers reportedly had two pass breakups and an interception in the 11-on-11 period. Jackson said he used Peppers’ interception as a moment for education: The rookie tried to return it for a score instead of getting down during an end-of-game situation.

Overall, Jackson said Peppers was “outstanding.” For rookies to earn snaps, they have to take advantage of opportunities. It sounds like Peppers did just that.

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