In a surprising turn of events, the New England Patriots may be on the verge of parting ways with safety Kyle Dugger, a former second-round pick and one of the team’s highest-paid players. Once considered a cornerstone of the Patriots’ defense, Dugger’s recent demotion on the depth chart has sparked speculation about his future with the team.
A Shocking Fall from Grace
Dugger, who was named a team captain last season and signed a lucrative four-year, $58 million contract extension, has seen his stock plummet. During Monday’s training camp session, he was notably relegated to practicing behind Jabrill Peppers, Jaylinn Hawkins, and even fourth-round rookie Craig Woodson, according to insights shared by Phil Perry and Tom E. Curran on the Patriots Talk podcast. This unexpected slide down the depth chart has raised eyebrows, especially for a player who was once viewed as a defensive leader.
Greg Bedard of Boston Sports Journal offered a sobering perspective on Dugger’s situation during an appearance on Early Edition. “I don’t think the Patriots are going to find anybody to take on that contract,” Bedard stated, referring to Dugger’s $14.5 million annual salary. He suggested that the Patriots might have to absorb a significant portion of “dead money” if they choose to release Dugger before the roster cutdown deadline on August 27, 2025.
Factors Behind the Decline
Several factors have contributed to Dugger’s precarious position. A series of injuries last season hampered his productivity, limiting his impact in the Patriots’ secondary. Additionally, the arrival of new head coach Mike Vrabel and executives John Streicher and Ryan Cowden has ushered in a shift in team philosophy. The new regime appears less tethered to decisions made by the previous front office, including Dugger’s hefty contract extension, which was signed before his injury-plagued campaign.
Bedard pointed out that with approximately $60 million in available cap space, the Patriots are in a position to move on from contracts they deem unfavorable. While players like Michael Onwenu have proven their worth, Bedard believes Dugger’s $14.5 million annual salary no longer aligns with his current value to the team. “If there’s any contract from the prior regime they don’t like, now’s the time to do it,” Bedard noted.
What’s Next for Dugger?
The Patriots face a tough decision as the roster cutdown deadline approaches. Releasing Dugger would mean eating a significant portion of his contract, a move the team has historically been reluctant to make. However, with younger, cheaper talent like Craig Woodson emerging and established players like Peppers and Hawkins ahead of him, Dugger’s role has undeniably diminished.
If no trade partner emerges willing to take on his contract, Bedard envisions a scenario where Dugger is cut, forcing him to seek a new home in the NFL. “Depending on injuries, he might stick around through the preseason,” Bedard said, “but I can see a scenario where he’s released, and they eat that dead money.”
A New Chapter Awaits
For Dugger, a 2020 second-round pick out of Lenoir-Rhyne, this could mark the end of his tenure with the Patriots. Once a promising talent who earned a transition tag and a captain’s role, his recent struggles and the team’s new direction may close the door on his time in New England. As the Patriots reshape their roster for the future, Dugger may soon find himself packing his bags, searching for a fresh start elsewhere in the NFL.