Peppers was removed from the commissioner’s exempt list on Monday and returned to practice Tuesday for the first time since he pleaded not guilty on assault, strangulation and drug charges in October. His first practice back was a walk-through in the Patriots’ practice bubble.

FOXBOROUGH - Brian Belichick didn’t hide or couch his feelings about having Jabrill Peppers back with the team, working toward a return. The Patriots safeties coach was happy to see Peppers, who was removed from the Commissioner’s Exempt List earlier in the week, back in the mix.

As Jabrill Peppers ’ case involving drug possession and strangulation appears headed for trial, the NFL removed the New England Patriots safety from the commissioner’s exempt list Monday.