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Steelers Strengthen Secondary by Acquiring Veteran Safety from Patriots After Back-to-Back Losses

The Pittsburgh Steelers are wasting no time addressing their defensive struggles. Following two straight losses — including a 35–25 defeat to the Green Bay Packers — the team has officially traded for veteran safety from the New England Patriots.

According to ESPN, the Steelers sent a sixth-round pick and a seventh-round swap to the Patriots in exchange for Dugger, who was selected in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. The move comes as Pittsburgh places safety DeShon Elliott on injured reserve with a hyperextended knee suffered in Sunday’s loss.

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Kyle Dugger, 28, brings experience and versatility to a secondary that’s been inconsistent in recent weeks. He started 69 of 81 games for the Patriots and recorded over 400 total tackles, nine interceptions, and two defensive touchdowns. After signing a four-year, $58 million extension in 2024, Dugger had become one of New England’s defensive leaders before falling out of rotation under new head coach Mike Vrabel.

“I’m excited to be in Pittsburgh,” Dugger said. “This organization has always been known for its defense — tough, physical, disciplined. That’s how I play the game. I can’t wait to get out there with T.J. Watt and Minkah and help this defense get back to Steelers football.”

The Steelers’ secondary has been under fire after allowing 360 passing yards and three touchdowns to Jordan Love in Week 8. With Elliott sidelined and depth thin, Dugger’s arrival gives Pittsburgh an immediate upgrade in tackling, coverage, and leadership on the back end.

Head coach Mike Tomlin said in a statement that Dugger’s addition represents the kind of mentality Pittsburgh needs down the stretch. “He’s smart, experienced, and plays with the physicality we value,” Tomlin said.

Pittsburgh will look to rebound when they face the Indianapolis Colts in Week 9 — and for a team looking to rediscover its defensive identity, the arrival of Kyle Dugger could not have come at a better time.

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49ers to Trade WR Star to Jets for Veteran LB Amid Locker Room Tension
Santa Clara, CA – The San Francisco 49ers are reportedly working on a potential trade that could send one of their key offensive weapons to the New York Jets in exchange for veteran linebacker. The move comes amid rising tension inside the 49ers locker room, following weeks of reported friction between the player and the coaching staff. According to sources close to the team, the decision stems from ongoing frustrations about usage, contract negotiations, and several heated sideline exchanges during recent games. While the 49ers have publicly praised their receiving corps, insiders suggest that behind the scenes, communication has become strained — especially between offensive leaders and the coaching staff. That player is Jauan Jennings, the fiery wide receiver known for his relentless competitiveness and emotional leadership. Jennings has been one of the team’s most clutch performers, earning the nickname “3rd and Jauan” for his ability to deliver in critical moments. However, recent weeks have seen tensions boil over as contract talks stalled and frustrations with playing time surfaced. Jauan Jennings later posted an emotional message on his Instagram Story, writing: “These past five years, I’ve loved this place and these fans more than I can ever say. San Francisco has been my home, and I’ve poured everything I have into that jersey. But sometimes, you reach a point where things just don’t click anymore - when the voices stop aligning. Maybe it’s time for a new chapter. I’ll always carry the memories, the brotherhood, and the love from this city with me. Thank you, San Francisco 49ers… from the bottom of my heart.” The 49ers are reportedly eyeing Quincy Williams as the centerpiece of a potential swap. Williams, a proven veteran and physical presence in the middle of the Jets defense, would bring leadership and stability to San Francisco’s linebacker unit, especially as depth concerns have grown late in the season. Williams’ experience in Robert Saleh’s defensive system also makes him an appealing fit for the 49ers, who continue to prioritize aggressive, high-motor defenders capable of adapting quickly to their scheme. As for Jennings, the move would offer a fresh start — and potentially a more prominent role — in New York’s offense alongside Garrett Wilson. The Jets have long been interested in adding a strong possession receiver to complement their young playmakers. Both teams are said to be discussing contract details and compensation adjustments before finalizing the trade, which could be completed in the coming days if all terms are agreed upon.