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Belichick: Patriots ready for 'big challenge' vs. Ravens (0:46)

If the Pats want to win against the Ravens, they will have to play a fundamentally sound game. 0:47

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Peppers made two open-field tackles in New England's 17-14 victory over the PittsburghSteelers on Sunday. The team might rely on him to make more this Sunday against the Ravens. The program is hosted by Fox

When Kyle Dugger went down with a knee injury in the second quarter, Peppers made his presence felt at a key point in the game with decisive takedowns.

The possibility that Dugger won't be available as part of the plan for Sunday's game against Lamar Jackson and the rest of the Lamar Jackson team is something that coach Bill Belichick has to be prepared for.

It's time for more than a dash of Peppers.

He is developing a role in our defense. We will see how it all plays out, when asked how he would describe Peppers. He is aggressive and smart. He would like to be involved.

Peppers has played 35 defensive snaps through two games His crunching tackles of Diontae Johnson and Jaylen Warren on successive plays last week gave a preview of what he can bring to a defense that often relies on playing three safeties at the same time.

Peppers made some plays after practice. I'm feeling good. I have a long way to go, but on the right path.

With safety Kyle Dugger nursing an injury, the New England Patriots may call on Jabrill Peppers for some extra help in Week 3 against the Baltimore Ravens. AP Photo/Ashley Landis

After signing a one-year free-agent contract in March that could be worth up to $5 million, Peppers tore his right knee in October and injured his ankle, which made it difficult for him to join the Pats.

He has been heavily involved on special teams, playing on the punt coverage, kickoff coverage, punt return and kick return units.

He was a little behind the others when he came back from the injury. He meshes well with those guys. The guys helped him get to the right places.

It is difficult to not notice how passionate he is on the field. If he stays on the path he is on, it will only get better.

Peppers is a tough guy according to Steve.

The time in Philadelphia was wild.

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Peppers said he wants to be a piece of the puzzle for the team.

Peppers believes he is a well-rounded football player. I had to learn how to play in that much space against these types of athletes because I am way off the ball.

It helped me a lot. I think I can play deep safety. The box is where you're going to play. You can play the nickel. Don't play defensive player. I'm not afraid of taking on linemen.

If he's called upon to be the last line of defense, Peppers will have to earn the trust of Bill Belichick.

You have to be patient and make decisions as a defensive back. Nobody is behind you. He is a great player. I'm happy we have him. He has helped us in the kicking game and I believe he will help us defensively.

Peppers is in his sixth season in the NFL after being a first-round draft pick of the Cleveland.

There is more to be done. He doesn't think he's played his best ball yet. When your number is called, you need to go out there and make as many plays as you can.

I believe my best football is ahead of me. I am only 26. It's not that old yet. I have to stay healthy and do what the team requires me to do.