Patriots safety addresses hot mic moment vs. Giants

The self-critical words came on the field as Barkley and Peppers (teammates in New York from 2019-2021) embraced. The running back's Giants defeated Peppers and the Patriots 10-7 on Sunday, handing New England its fourth loss in a row to drop them to an AFC-worst 2-9.

The 28-year-old defensive back took full responsibility for the controversial comment but also questioned why the NFL decided to release the specific clip of his chat with Barkley.

The Patriots defense has been near the league average in terms of points allowed per game, surrendering 22.5 points per tilt (21st), but their offense has been atrocious. New England enters Week 13 averaging 13.5 points per contest, which is second worst in the league. Barkley's G-Men are the only offensive unit averaging fewer points (13.3).

Head coach Bill Belichick's crew has scored single-digit points in two straight contests and four games this year and they're reportedly benching third-year starting quarterback Mac Jones in favor of second-year fourth-round pick Bailey Zappe.

A 2017 first-round pick of the Cleveland Browns, Peppers spent three years with New York after his initial two seasons with Cleveland. New England signed the Michigan product in April 2022 and he played in all 17 contests a year ago, making five starts.

Peppers has played and started in all 11 games this season, is tied for the team lead in passes defended (six) and is tied for second in tackles for loss (five).