Overview
- New England is sending Kyle Dugger and a 2026 seventh-round pick to Pittsburgh for a 2026 sixth-rounder, per reports from Tom Pelissero and Adam Schefter.
- The Steelers are placing safety DeShon Elliott on injured reserve with a hyperextended knee, creating the immediate need Dugger is expected to fill, according to Ian Rapoport.
- Dugger’s role shrank under new coach Mike Vrabel, with his defensive snap share dropping into the high-30s to low-40s percent range and reports citing a scheme mismatch.
- The 2020 second-round pick signed a four-year, roughly $58 million extension in 2024 and leaves New England with 81 games played and nine interceptions.
- The move was New England’s second similar pick-swap of the night after dealing Keion White to the 49ers, signaling a broader roster reset ahead of the Nov. 4 trade deadline, with cap-retention details on Dugger’s deal still developing.