The New England Patriots hit rock bottom during the 2023 season, and it resulted in the end of the Bill Belichick era after 24 glorious years. Now the Patriots have the third overall pick and are seeking a quick turnaround under first-year head coach Jerod Mayo.
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If the Patriots plan on a sharp improvement over their 4-13 record, it will require an influx of talent and Coach Mayo getting the most out of the players already on hand. But first, the Patriots need to decide on who to keep and who to let reach free agency.
New England Patriots reporter mentions Kyle Dugger as franchise tag candidate
The New England Patriots have nine defenders set for free agency this offseason, including Kyle Dugger, Josh Uche, and Jalen Mills. Of the three, Dugger has been a constant fixture in the lineup, starting 52 out of 61 games played.
But there’s a sense the Patriots won’t let their starting safety become an unrestricted free agent, with Patriots insider Mike Reiss suggesting Dugger as a potential franchise tag candidate.
Dugger started all 17 games last season, recording 109 tackles, 1.5 sacks, seven pass deflections, a forced fumble, and two interceptions. Now he could be in line for a massive raise after playing last year on a base salary of $2.7 million.
Even if the Patriots aren’t keen on paying Dugger what’s estimated to be a $16 million salary as a franchise-tagged safety, placing the tag on him could buy New England more time to reach a long-term extension. Spotrac places Dugger’s market value at $16.5 million, so the franchise tag appears to be in line with what he offers according to some measures.
As former Patriots safety Devin McCourty reminded, with New England’s front office no longer led by Bill Belichick, there’s no telling how this organization will operate from here on out.
“It will be interesting because historically the team has preferred to avoid using the franchise tag in hopes of continuing to make the overall roster better. So now we’ll see what they do in the new era in New England.”
Devin McCourty on New England Patriots
