New England Patriots safety Kyle Dugger offered his first public response amid swirling trade rumors following the preseason finale against the New York Giants.
Dugger, who had fallen to second-team reps during training camp, stayed grounded when asked about his future.
“Nah, things are going to go how they're going to go,” Dugger said. “Trusting God in it, and I'm going to keep taking the opportunities that I have, continue to get better, and get back to playing fast.”
The #Patriots are shopping safety Kyle Dugger, sources say, their starter the last five seasons.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 24, 2025
While Dugger thrived in New England and eventually earned a 4-year, $58M contract extension, the new staff appears to view him differently. He’s played deep into preseason games. pic.twitter.com/X4JUmqwFJp
Preseason Performance Could Secure Dugger’s Spot
Dugger’s play against the Giants showed signs of a resurgence. He recorded six combined tackles, two pass breakups, and an interception, prompting head coach Mike Vrabel to praise his effort. The veteran safety has 65 starts, nine interceptions, three defensive touchdowns, and over 400 career tackles with the Patriots since 2020.
𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭: The Patriots are actively shopping safety Kyle Dugger, per @RapSheet
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) August 24, 2025
Who should make a move for him? pic.twitter.com/TI0VztXzwG
Dugger’s slide down the depth chart followed offseason ankle surgery and a new coaching staff re-shaping the roster. Vrabel stressed that Dugger needed to focus on coverage concepts and reps, noting, “Keep working and keep progressing. A lot of this is that guys have earned the right to take a look with that first unit.”
While trade talks linger, Dugger’s recent performance could make it difficult for the Patriots to move him without finding a team willing to take on his $58 million, four-year contract.
Patriots’ Roster Decisions Loom
The Patriots have until Tuesday, August 27, to finalize their 53-man roster. Dugger’s strong showing in the preseason finale may have strengthened his case to remain on the roster, even if not as a consistent starter.
Meanwhile, Jabrill Peppers and Jaylinn Hawkins are positioned to start at safety, with rookie Craig Woodson also competing for snaps.
Photo Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
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