Patriots’ Kyle Dugger to miss third straight game, Jerod Mayo says he’ll play again this year
Dugger is still recovering from a lingering ankle injury suffered against the 49ers.
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Safety Kyle Dugger hasn’t played due to an ankle injury since the Patriots faced off against the Jaguars in London last month.
He’ll remain on the bench as he recovers for a third consecutive week versus the Bears Sunday, but head coach Jerod Mayo gave a positive update on New England’s captain ahead of the matchup.
When asked if Dugger is expected to play again in 2024, Mayo said yes.
“He’ll be back this year for sure, yeah,” he replied.
“He’s still dealing with the ankle and as you know, all injuries don’t heal the same way,” Mayo added. “He’s still dealing with those things and we’ll see how it goes.”
Dugger initially suffered his lingering ankle ailment against the 49ers in September. He was carted off the field at the time and missed the Patriots’ next game in Week 5 against the Dolphins.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported after that game that Dugger “avoided major injury” to his ankle, but added he “could miss some time.” Paired with Mayo’s confirmation that he expects Dugger to play again this season, the report still appears to be holding true.
Dugger gained captaincy, and the green dot, after defensive teammate linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley suffered a torn pec against the Seahawks in Week 2. He was the Patriots’ on-field defensive play communicator before enduring his ankle injury.
In his place, LB Marte Mapu has primarily filled in as the green dot wearer. However, Mapu suffered a neck injury last week versus the Titans. He is questionable to play in Chicago this weekend, which means the merry-go-round of who holds the green dot may continue.
LB Christian Elliss filled in as the play-caller for Mapu last week. The problem is, Elliss also landed on this week’s injury report with an abdomen injury and was ruled out along with Dugger Friday.
The inability of key Patriots players to stay healthy on both sides of the ball has certainly played a role in New England’s seven losses this season, especially on defense.
The Patriots will try for their third win of the year in Chicago at 1 p.m. Eastern Time Sunday.
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