Former Patriots Captain Questionable vs. Browns

FOXBOROUGH, MA. — As the New England Patriots finalize their preparations to host the Cleveland Browns for a showdown at Gillette Stadium this weekend, they may be doing so without the services of a key veteran defensive back.

The Patriots, per head coach Mike Vrabel, have listed safety Kyle Dugger as questionable for Week 8 with a knee injury. Dugger did not participate the the Pats final practice of the week and is the lone Patriot to be listed on their ultimate injury and practice participation report.

This season, Dugger has appeared in all seven games [making four starts] while compiling 17 total tackles. Due to his preseason and early-season struggles, the former Pats’ team captain has been the subject of both trade and release rumors — the former of which are expected to continue up to the NFL’s Nov. 4 trade deadline.

Throughout his five-plus seasons in Foxborough, Dugger has appeared in 81 regular season games, making 69 starts. He also started his only playoff appearance in 2021. The Decatur, Georgia native has compiled 441 total tackles, nine interceptions and two fumble recoveries, while scoring three defensive touchdowns. His extensive knowledge of the Patriots playbook made him the logical choice to serve as their starter with veteran Jaylinn Hawkins being sidelined for the past two games with a hamstring injury.

Kyle Dugger Has Delivered When Needed

Dugger, a product of Division II Lenoir-Rhyne, typically brings an excellent blend of speed, length, size to New England’s defensive backfield — both big nickel with five defensive backs and dime with six defensive backs. At his best, he is able to cover a lot of ground and has the tools to match up with defenders in coverage. Dugger is also a good tackler, capable of making stops in key situations. His on-field prowess combined with his football acumen have made him a valuable commodity to the Patriots.