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The Patriots made a significant splash on Sunday morning, once again keeping one of their own around for the long-term.
According to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo and Eric Edholm, New England and safety Kyle Dugger have agreed on a four-year contract for the safety to remain in Foxborough "for 2024 and beyond."
It's a four-year, $58 million deal with a maximum value of $66 million, per Ian Rapoport. Dugger also reportedly gets $32.5 million in guaranteed money.
After the two sides failed to reach an agreement on an extension prior to the start of NFL free agency, the Patriots placed the transition tag on Kyle Dugger. The tag, worth $13.81 million for one year, gave the team some flexibility and the ability to retain him, while allowing Dugger to test the market for an offer sheet. Nothing stuck, and he now returns to the team that drafted him for four more years with an average annual value (AAV) of $14.5 million.
Since being selected by New England out of Lenoir-Rhyne with the 37th pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, Dugger has tallied 343 tackles, 9 interceptions, 2 forced fumbles, and 2.5 sacks over four seasons. The 28-year-old has also scored three defensive touchdowns.
“We definitely want to keep Kyle... We’re hopeful to continue to work with [his] agent... to make that happen,” said Patriots de facto general manager Eliot Wolf when speaking at the NFL Combine last month. “Draft and develop. Extend your core performers from within.”
Mission accomplished. Dugger joins OT Mike Onwenu, LB Josh Uche, and LB Anfernee Jennings as homegrown, drafted talent by New England that has re-signed with the team this offseason.
The Patriots begin their offseason program on Monday April 8.
Make sure to follow Mike on Twitter @mikekadlick, and follow @WEEI for the latest up-to-date Patriots and Boston sports news!
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