Could Patriots Use Franchise Tag on Kyle Dugger?

With several key players on expiring contracts this offseason, the New England Patriots may be forced to use their franchise tag.

The New England Patriots are embarking on a critical offseason, which will not only be their first under new coach Jerod Mayo but could also mark the beginning of a rebuild. With a roster set to have several of the team's top young talents enter free agency, the Patriots will undoubtedly be forced to "burn cash" to keep them. 

Top young talents like Kyle Dugger, Josh Uche, Christian Barmore, and Michael Onwenu could all leave the Patriots this offseason unless new contracts are agreed upon, too. 

And while New England is unlikely to agree to new deals with all its players, it doesn't mean they have to leave in free agency because there is always the option of the franchise tag.

Which is what a recent article from ESPN's Mike Reiss has proposed the Patriots use to keep Dugger in Foxboro for at least another season. 

"Giving Dugger the tag, estimated to be around $16 million for safeties, could potentially buy the sides more time to work on an extension while also helping the Patriots retain negotiating leverage with one of their top unrestricted free agents," Reiss writes.

Nov 5, 2023; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots safety Kyle Dugger (23) runs the ball out of the end zone after an interception during the first half against the Washington Commanders at Gillette Stadium.  / Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports

With $66 million in cap space this offseason, per OverTheCap's projections, the Patriots certainly have the cash to "burn," and if the former second-round pick out of Lenoir-Rhyne University has shown anything in his four seasons, it's that he is an impact player for the Patriots. 

Not only has he been a traditional safety for the Patriots, but he has brought the versatility to playing as a linebacker, lining up as the nickel, and even playing on the outside as a cornerback. Dugger has done it all for the Patriots, which is why they would be justified in using the tag on him if that is what it takes to keep him. 

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Last season, Dugger totaled 109 tackles (a career-high), six for a loss, 1.5 sacks, one forced fumble, and two interceptions, as he played in all 17 games. 

As for Dugger's projected market value for an extension, Spotrac predicts Dugger to sign a four-year, $66 million contract, which wouldn't make him the highest-paid safety but would slot him in third only behind Derwin James and Minkah Fitzpatrick.