New England Patriots Safety Kyle Dugger on Trade Block

In Foxborough, Massachusetts, reports are swirling that Kyle Dugger, the safety for the New England Patriots, is on the trade block as the team prepares for roster cuts ahead of the upcoming NFL season. This news comes after Dugger has seen a drop in his position during the preseason, prompting the franchise to explore potential trade partners.

Dugger, who signed a lucrative four-year, $58 million contract last offseason, is now facing the possibility of being moved just a year later. The deal included three years remaining on it and was earned after he established himself as a key player in the starting lineup over his five-year tenure with the team. Dugger began his rookie season in 2020 strongly, starting in seven of his fourteen games and maintaining a place in the top tier since then.

Unfortunately, Dugger’s recovery from offseason ankle surgery has contributed to his current struggles. Coach Mike Vrabel confirmed recently that Dugger has been relegated to a second-team role. The Patriots are looking at Jabrill Peppers expected to start in one of the safety positions. Other players, like Jaylinn Hawkins and rookie Craig Woodson, are vying for the remaining spot alongside Peppers.

Vrabel commented, “Just making sure that he’s where he needs to be and understanding the coverage concepts and everything we do.” He emphasized that Dugger should focus on the opportunities he has at practice and work on improving. Dugger had a solid season last year, recording 81 tackles and a sack, but his ankle issue kept him from reaching his full potential and led to a disappointing statistic—his first year without an interception since his rookie campaign.

The Patriots have until August 27 to finalize their 53-player roster. If they do decide to cut Dugger, the financial implications would be significant, with the team facing $23.5 million in dead money. Dugger currently ranks as the second-highest paid player on the Patriots’ roster, a deal that was structured under the previous coaching staff.

As roster decisions loom, many fans and analysts will be closely watching whether Dugger will be traded or retained as the Patriots prepare for the new season ahead.