The New England Patriots are about to sail in unchartered territory.
With Bill Belichick no longer there, they need the veterans to step up and help lead by example as they transition into this new era.
Notably, veteran S Kyle Dugger has done just that.
According to a report by NFL insider Mike Reiss, Dugger has embraced a leadership role in the weeks leading to training camp.
Despite some of his teammates leaving Foxboro in the offseason, Dugger has stayed local and has been a regular presence at Gillette Stadium, getting some reps in to prepare for the season (via Carlos Talks Pats).
Despite most members of the #Patriots having left the area in the weeks leading up to training camp, S Kyle Dugger has remained local, per @MikeReiss
Dugger’s been a constant at Gillette as he preps for the season — the staff is hoping he can take on more of a leadership role. pic.twitter.com/nh1SdSluey
— Carlos Talks Pats (@LosTalksPats) July 7, 2024
Dugger recently signed a four-year contract extension worth $58 million.
The extension included a $32.5 million guarantee.
He’s been one of the most consistent players on the team for years now, and while he’s significantly better against the run than in pass coverage, he’s definitely earned every single penny of that new deal.
A second-round pick in 2020, he became a full starter in 2021 after starting almost half of the team’s games as a rookie.
As of today, he’s logged 61 career appearances with 343 tackles, two forced fumbles, two pick-sixes, nine interceptions, and 2.5 sacks.
Now, he’s going to be a pivotal part of Jerod Mayo’s team’s success, not only with his play on the field but also with the positive impact he can make in the locker room for a rebuilding team that’s looking to get back to its winning ways once and for all.
