With the NFL preseason winding down, teams are getting close to cutting down the roster to 53 before week 1 of the NFL season. While some players will be released, we could see some players get traded to other teams instead. For the New England Patriots, two veteran players are in danger of being traded ahead of roster cutdowns.
Kyle Dugger and Anfernee Jennings Reportedly on the Trade Block
As the Patriots have actively scoured the trade market, they’ve discussed Kyle Dugger and Anfernee Jennings as players who could be available in a swap, per sources. It sounds like Jennings has drawn interest, while Dugger’s contract has been viewed as an obstacle in a potential…
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) August 20, 2025
Anfernee Jennings and Kyle Dugger May Be Traded Before the Season
The Patriots are reportedly trying to move both Anfernee Jennings and Kyle Dugger, per The Athletic's Jeff Howe. Both players have been long-time members of the defense since being drafted in the 2020 draft. Dugger was taken with the 37th pick in round two, while Jennings was taken 87th overall in the third round.
During his time in New England, Jennings took some time to get going with 47 tackles and 1.5 sacks through his first two seasons. Jennings also missed the entire 2021 NFL season. During the past two seasons, Jennings has seen a jump in stats with 66 tackles and 1.5 sacks in 2023 and 78 tackles and 2.5 sacks in 2024. With the change in coaching staff under new head coach Mike Vrabel, Jennings' fit in the defense isn't the same as before.
Since being drafted, Dugger has been one of the best defenders on the Patriots' defense. Through his first 4 seasons, Dugger would play in 61 games and accumulate 343 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and 9 interceptions, with two of those being returned for touchdowns. In the offseason before year 5, Dugger signed an extension worth $58 million over 4 years.
In year 5, Dugger had a down year due to being hampered by an ankle injury during the season. He'd undergo surgery to fix the issue following the season, but Dugger has had some issues getting back to being his past self. Given his high contract, moving Dugger could be an issue, as teams could be wary.
While both players have one more preseason game to go, we could see a decision made before the game starts. The Patriots' final preseason game is on Thursday, August 21st, when the Patriots head out to take on the New York Giants.