Several roster questions entered the Patriots' preseason, with starters getting limited opportunities to play. Roster-bubble players received significant playing time and used it to prove their value and earn consideration for the 2025 roster. Many players faced their final audition in the preseason finale, with performances directly affecting their chances to make the team. Veteran safety Kyle Dugger struggled in 2024 and an underwhelming summer, was moved to second-team defense, and remained on the field late in the fourth quarter. Dugger recorded three tackles, a pass breakup, and an endzone interception, drawing praise from coaches and improving his odds of making the roster.
The Patriots entered this year's preseason with several roster questions that needed to be addressed. Much of it was seemingly dealt with, while other parts were hindered by the lack of opportunities for starters to get in the game and play. Fortunately for those on the roster bubble, they got more than enough time on the field to prove their worth to the team.
Perhaps the most controversial name to be on the roster bubble is veteran safety and longtime starter Kyle Dugger. He has become a pillar of the Patriots' secondary since joining the team in 2020, but a decline in performance in 2024, followed by an underwhelming summer, made it easy for Vrabel and Co. to relegate him to the second-team defense this past week, seemingly sending a message that he needs to improve to make the team.
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