The New England Patriots have set the NFL rumor mill ablaze after informing one of their veteran defensive backs he will be traded. Reports confirm his representatives are already exploring potential landing spots across the league.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport revealed that multiple teams are monitoring the situation closely as his playing time has dipped in a contract year. With New England regaining pieces in the secondary, the team views him as expendable.

That player is Kyle Dugger, the tone-setting safety and locker-room leader. Through four games in 2025, Dugger has tallied 21 tackles, 1 interception, and 2 passes defended, but his role has grown increasingly uncertain amid shifting personnel and contract dynamics.

What stunned fans most, however, was his passionate response to speculation about a move to division rival New York. Dugger made his stance clear, issuing a fiery statement that spread quickly across social media.

“IF THEY TRADE ME TO THE JETS, I’LL RETIRE ON THE SPOT. I WASN’T BORN IN NEW ENGLAND, BUT I BECAME A PATRIOT HERE. I’VE BLED RED, WHITE, AND BLUE THROUGH EVERY SNAP, EVERY SETBACK,

” Dugger said.
He doubled down with stronger words: “AND I’LL NEVER PUT ON GREEN & WHITE — NOT FOR MONEY, NOT FOR SNAPS, NOT FOR ANYTHING. LOYALTY STILL MEANS SOMETHING TO ME, ESPECIALLY WHEN IT COMES TO OUR BIGGEST RIVAL.”

While a trade to New York is off the table, playoff contenders are circling. Dugger’s blend of range, physicality, and ball skills continues to make him a high-upside target despite inconsistency this season.

For New England, the decision reflects a commitment to building the secondary around Christian Gonzalez and Jabrill Peppers. For Dugger, the focus shifts to finding the right home — anywhere but the AFC East’s green and white.

Stay tuned to ESPN.