Kyle Dugger is not guaranteed to start the season as the Patriots sort out their safety depth. Dugger has been relegated to second-team reps while he recovers from offseason ankle surgery, with Jabrill Peppers and Jaylinn Hawkins taking prominent first-unit roles and Cal product Craig Woodson in the mix. Dugger’s mega extension remains, but health and progression will determine whether he remains a starter, becomes depth, or even is a trade candidate before roster cuts. The Patriots face a 53-man decision by late August as they balance cap considerations with on-field value.

Dugger finished 2024 with 81 tackles and a sack in 13 games after missing four games in 2024 due to the ankle, following a career-best 109 tackles in 2023. With a new coaching staff, depth moves like this aren’t shocking, but they signal how New England views Dugger at a pivotal preseason juncture. A potential move would hinge on dead money, team need, and the ability to land a partner who can offset his cap hit.