Patriots’ Defensive Captain Kyle Dugger Questionable for Week 8 with Ankle Injury
*October 28, 2024* – The New England Patriots could be facing a major setback on defense this Sunday, as starting safety and defensive captain Kyle Dugger has been added to the injury report due to an ankle injury. Dugger, now in his fifth NFL season, has been a crucial part of the Patriots’ secondary, providing both physicality and leadership. His potential absence could leave a big gap as the Patriots prepare to take on the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 8. Dugger’s injury adds to New England’s growing list of players with uncertain status, with nine players currently listed as questionable and two already ruled out.
Dugger initially sustained the ankle injury earlier in the season, causing him to miss a game. He managed to return last Sunday against the Jaguars, where he played through it effectively. The versatile safety was only a limited participant in Wednesday’s practice, suggesting the team might have been managing his workload. However, Dugger participated fully in practices on Thursday and Friday, which initially indicated that he’d be good to go for the weekend. His addition to the injury report at the last minute is concerning, as it could signal a setback or a precautionary move by the coaching staff.
The Patriots will certainly feel the impact if Dugger can’t suit up on Sunday. Known for his ability to play both in the box and deep in coverage, Dugger is a versatile defender who helps to neutralize opposing tight ends and make plays near the line of scrimmage. He leads the Patriots in tackles this season and has played a significant role in their pass defense. Without him, the team may need to lean on backups like Jabrill Peppers or Adrian Phillips to fill his role, both of whom bring experience but lack Dugger’s dynamic skill set.
Dugger’s potential absence isn’t the only concern for New England heading into Week 8. The team ruled out wide receiver Ja’Lynn Polk and offensive guard Layden Robinson on Friday, weakening their already struggling offense. Polk, a young and promising wideout, has shown flashes of playmaking ability, while Robinson has been a solid contributor in protecting quarterback Mac Jones. These absences could put additional strain on an offense already battling consistency issues.
With a long list of questionable players, including Dugger, head coach Bill Belichick will have to make adjustments to compensate for potential defensive and offensive absences. New England’s defense will be tested against a Jaguars team led by quarterback Trevor Lawrence, who has excelled this season. Lawrence’s connection with receivers Calvin Ridley and Christian Kirk has been strong, and Dugger’s absence could make it harder for the Patriots to cover the Jaguars’ dynamic passing game.
As the Patriots aim to improve their 2-5 record, Dugger’s presence could be critical to their defensive game plan. His uncertain status, alongside the other injuries, raises the stakes for the Week 8 matchup, which will be a crucial test of New England’s depth and resilience. For now, Patriots fans will have to wait until game day to see if Dugger and other key players will be able to take the field.