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3 Patriots Whose Exits Would Be Addition by Subtraction This Offseason

The New England Patriots could come back better than ever next season if they walk away from these three players this offseason.

By Devon Platana

Mike Vrabel addresses the media at a press conference to announce his hiring as the New England Patriots head coach at Gillette Stadium.
Mike Vrabel addresses the media at a press conference to announce his hiring as the New England Patriots head coach at Gillette Stadium. / Eric Canha-Imagn Images
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2. Kyle Dugger, S

It only took a few seasons for Kyle Dugger to go from Patriots fan-favorite to one of the more frustrating players to watch in 2024.

Limited to 13 games due to injury, Dugger finished Year 5 in the NFL with 55 solo tackles, four defended passes, and a sack. Although those are far from the worst numbers, the 28-year-old's abysmal play in coverage frustrated the fanbase the most.

The 2024 campaign marked Dugger's first time failing to record an interception since his rookie year. He also surrendered 36 receptions on 46 targets (78.3%) for 387 yards, six touchdowns, and a 141.3 passer rating. By the time the regular season ended, the former Lenoir-Rhyne defender's 34.8 coverage grade on PFF ranked dead last among 96 eligible safeties.

Dugger still has three seasons remaining on the four-year, $58 million extension he signed last April, but that doesn't mean his future in New England is secure. The Patriots can save $2 million if they trade him before June 1 and those savings will jump to $11 million after that date.

Even though the Patriots already have the most cap space in the NFL this season, having too much money isn't a bad thing — especially if a postseason return is the franchise's No. 1 priority.

Some New England fans would be sad to see Dugger go, however, a fresh start could benefit both sides.

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