Kyle Dugger’s 2024 season was one to forget for both the player and the New England Patriots, as the safety’s once-promising trajectory took a significant downturn. After signing a lucrative four-year extension worth up to $66 million in April 2024, expectations for Dugger were high. He had shown flashes of brilliance in his previous seasons, with solid coverage skills, physical tackling, and strong leadership qualities. However, his 2024 campaign was marred by inconsistency, missed tackles, and struggles in pass coverage, leading many to question whether the Patriots had made a mistake by locking him into such a big contract.
The frustrations from fans and analysts alike stemmed from the fact that Dugger had proven himself capable of much better. In the past, he had looked like one of the most dynamic safeties on the field, capable of making game-changing plays. So, when his performance dropped off dramatically in 2024, it raised eyebrows. His coverage grade on Pro Football Focus (PFF) hit a career-low 34.8, and his overall defensive grade of 44.3 placed him among the worst in the league. Dugger’s inability to perform at a level matching his contract made him one of the most disappointing defensive players for the Patriots that season.
It wasn’t until the offseason that the root cause of Dugger’s decline was revealed: a lingering ankle injury that he had been battling throughout the season. Dugger admitted in an interview with the Boston Herald that he had suffered a ligament detachment in his right ankle as early as Week 4 against the San Francisco 49ers. The injury worsened in Week 6 against the Houston Texans, but Dugger continued to play through the pain. Initially, he believed it was just a bone bruise, but as the injury persisted, it became clear that it was much more serious.
Despite the efforts of the Patriots’ medical staff, who hoped that daily treatment would help him recover, it was ultimately clear that surgery would be the only solution. Dugger underwent surgery on January 9, 2025, to repair the damage and begin his road to recovery. The Patriots hope that this procedure, combined with the fresh perspective brought by new head coach Mike Vrabel, will help Dugger regain his form.
The real test for Dugger will come in the upcoming offseason. The Patriots are looking to see whether Dugger can return to his previous form once workouts begin in early April. His health and recovery will be critical for a defense that needs stability and leadership. If Dugger can return to his pre-2024 performance levels, he could still be a key building block for the Patriots’ defensive future. But for now, Dugger’s 2024 season will be remembered as a cautionary tale of playing through injury, and how even the toughest players can suffer when they push their bodies beyond their limits.
