New England Patriots safety Kyle Dugger detailed the first conversation he had with coach Mike Vrabel in a recent interview with Boston Herald’s Andrew Callahan.
Dugger is expected to play a key role on defense in 2025 after signing a four-year, $58 million contract extension last year. So it’s no surprise he’d be looking to get acquainted with his new head coach.
“(Vrabel) was really positive,” Dugger said. “From the small talk we had and his energy, he seems like a genuine dude that wants to come in, win and put us in the best position to do so, which is all I can hope for as a player. So I’m excited to move forward.”
Dugger is looking to bounce back after a tough season with the Patriots. He battled through injuries that slowed his production. All told, he recorded 81 tackles and a sack on the season.
Things picked up for him as he got healthier down the stretch. He posted a 10-tackle game against the Arizona Cardinals coming off a late bye week.
Dugger has been viewed as a valuable player for the Patriots ever since he began his career with the organization. That isn’t likely to change under Vrabel and defensive coordinator Terrell Williams if he stays healthy.