Pats Pulpit
The New England Patriots’ busy Tuesday continued less than an hour after reports broke that Keion White had been traded. Kyle Dugger, the team’s longest-tenured player, is also on his way out of town: he is being shipped to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The Patriots are getting a sixth-round draft choice in 2026 in return for Dugger and a seventh-rounder. Let’s grade the move.
Brian Hines: The Patriots have been looking for a trade for Dugger since the summer, but the safety remained a contributor playing just under 40 percent of the defensive snaps and appearing on special teams. Dugger’s contract, however, does not match that role ultimately leading to the deal — but safety depth is now an increased area of need to acquire before the deadline. | Grade: C
Pat Lane: Once again, it’s hard to give the Patriots a very good grade for getting almost nothing back in return, but the Patriots had to move on from Dugger, who was clearly not a scheme fit. I really hope Pittsburgh can help him find his old self, but it looks like a lot of that freakish athleticism that made him such an intriguing prospect is gone. | Grade: D
Matt St. Jean: Kyle Dugger was once a key chess piece in Bill Belichick’s defense. Sadly, a handful of injuries, a scheme change, and the loss of Devin McCourty next to him and he’s no longer the same player. Maybe reuniting with Jabrill Peppers in Pittsburgh can unlock the old Kyle Dugger once again. In the meantime, you’re just happy to get what you can and move on. | Grade: C
Dugger leaving the Patriots removes yet another longtime starter and team captain from the team in the first year under the new regime of head coach Mike Vrabel. Earlier during the offseason, the team already parted ways with David Andrews, Ja’Whaun Bentley and the aforementioned Jabrill Peppers.
Now it’s your turn. What do you think about the Kyle Dugger trade? Do you like it? Do you not? Please head to the comment section to discuss.
