3 Patriots Who Need a Contract Extension Before the Season

2. Kyle Dugger

It’s impossible to imagine the Patriots’ secondary without Kyle Dugger at this point.

The former 2020 second-rounder is coming off another productive campaign, recording 78 total tackles (50 solo), 8 defended passes, a fumble recovered for a TD and 3 interceptions, including a pair of pick-sixes.

Now entering his fourth NFL campaign, Dugger is ready for an even bigger role. After all, 12-year team captain and fellow defensive back Devin McCourty retired during the offseason, opening the door for Dugger to take on a larger leadership role.

Dugger stepped up when New England needed help in the past and I’m certain this will be the case in the wake of McCourty’s retirement as well.

Assuming that Dugger thrives with the added responsibility and his on-field play doesn’t regress, it’s wise for the Patriots to extend him now. He’s bound to attract a ton of attention next offseason and I won’t be shocked if there’s a team out there willing to overpay for his services.

New England’s defense will suffer if Dugger is subtracted, so it’s better to bite the bullet and pay him what he deserves.