The Unraveling of a Season: Kyle Dugger’s Injury-Riddled Year
A Promising Start
About 11 months ago, I compiled a list of the pending free agents I most wanted the Patriots to re-sign. At the top of that list was Kyle Dugger, a versatile safety who led the unit in total snaps and solo tackles. His ability to support the run, cover tight ends and backs, and rush the passer made him an invaluable asset to the team.
A Season of Struggle
Fast-forward to the 2024 season, and Dugger’s performance was a far cry from his previous excellence. He compiled a passer rating against of 141.3, allowed six touchdowns, and recorded no interceptions or passes broken up. His coverage grade and overall grade were among the lowest at his position, according to Pro Football Focus. The Patriots’ defense suffered as a result, dropping from ninth in DVOA in 2023 to 27th in 2024.
The Hidden Culprit
But there’s a perfectly legitimate explanation for Dugger’s subpar performance: a lingering ankle injury. Initially diagnosed as a mild sprain, Dugger was told two weeks later he’d developed a bone bruise. Two months after that, he was informed he needed surgery to re-stabilize the ankle. Despite the injury, Dugger played through the pain, logging 759 snaps, third-most in his career.
Leadership and Accountability
Dugger’s struggles on the field were compounded by the team’s lack of leadership and inexperience. He acknowledged that he didn’t do enough to bridge the gap in leadership, particularly after the loss of linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley. The team’s inability to fill the void left by Bentley’s departure contributed to their struggles.
A New Era of Leadership
Fortunately, the Patriots have taken steps to address their leadership vacuum by hiring Mike Vrabel, a culture-driven coach who will undoubtedly elevate players like Dugger who are committed to being part of the solution. The team must also address their medical and training staff’s mistakes, which led to Dugger’s injury being misdiagnosed and mistreated.
A Fresh Start
Despite the setbacks, Kyle Dugger remains the player we thought he was. His willingness to play through pain and his commitment to leadership are qualities that make him an invaluable asset to the team. As the Patriots look to rebuild and rebound, Dugger’s presence will be crucial in shaping their future success.
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