Is Kyle Dugger The NFL’s Most Underrated Safety?

The New England Patriots defense is finding some life.

After the team’s 1-3 start to the season, their defense has gotten better.

However, the improvements on defense are led by safety Kyle Dugger.

While many are sleeping on this young safety, he’s causing issues for offenses in return.

But is he underrated, or is he just getting lucky against poor teams?

Patriots’ Fans See Dugger As An Underrated Safety

When you examine how Patriots’ fans feel about Dugger, you can easily find them believing he’s underrated.

Kyle Dugger has been one of the best overall Safety’s in the #NFL this season and is the most underrated Safety as well.#Patriots found a gem in the 2020 draft.

— PGS NEST  (@NestPgs) October 14, 2022

While Dugger has done well in his last two games, they were against the Detroit Lions and Cleveland Browns.

With neither team having a star-studded offense, there’s more research needed behind his season.

For 2022, Dugger has 15 solo tackles, one interception, two passes defended, and one fumble recovered.

Compared to Kevin Byard, who came into 2022 as a top-ten safety, the numbers are close.

While Byard has more solo tackles (24), he’s got the same interception numbers, but one fewer pass defended.

So Dugger is slightly underrated compared to the best safeties in the game.

However, his play against the Steelers and Packers were two of his worst games so far this season.

But overall, Dugger is having a solid season.

He’s trending in the right direction with his last two games.

With the Patriots playing the Chicago Bears in their next game, Dugger can continue his improvements.

With six games already behind him, he’s getting into a grove that’s helping the Patriots defense.

If he can continue the trend, then Dugger might have a breakout season this year.