The New England Patriots may be looking to shake things up before the 2025 NFL season, and two familiar names are reportedly on the trading block.
According to multiple reports, safety Kyle Dugger and linebacker Anfernee Jennings are among the players the team has made available in trade discussions.
Dugger, a 2020 second-round pick out of Lenoir-Rhyne, has been one of the Patriots’ most versatile defenders over the past four seasons. Known for his ability to play both in the box and deep in coverage, Dugger has often been tasked with covering tight ends and providing support against the run. He posted some of the best numbers of his career in 2022 and 2023, but New England’s long-term plans at safety appear uncertain, particularly after the team invested in younger defensive backs through recent drafts.
Jennings, meanwhile, emerged in 2023 as a key contributor in the Patriots’ front seven. Drafted in the third round in 2020, the former Alabama standout has primarily served as an edge defender and rotational linebacker. Last season, Jennings earned praise for his toughness against the run and his ability to set the edge, traits that would make him appealing to teams in need of linebacker depth.
The decision to make Dugger and Jennings available comes as the Patriots transition into a new era under head coach Jerod Mayo and front-office leader Eliot Wolf. With a roster that is clearly in the midst of retooling, New England could be looking to acquire future draft capital or address needs on offense, where playmakers have been scarce in recent years.
Both players would likely draw interest on the open market. Safeties with Dugger’s blend of size, athleticism, and versatility rarely become available, and Jennings’ value as a strong run defender could make him an ideal fit for a contender seeking depth at linebacker.
As the trade market develops, the Patriots’ willingness to part with two homegrown defenders signals their commitment to reshaping the roster for the future. Whether deals ultimately materialize or not, Dugger and Jennings represent intriguing potential additions for teams around the league.
