The fresh agreement spans four years, with a base salary totaling $58 million, encompassing $32.5 million in guaranteed money. The contract’s potential value can reach up to $66 million. These details were disclosed by the individual who shared the information with the AP under the condition of anonymity due to the terms not yet being officially announced. NFL Network was the first to report on this development.

Dugger, who played in all 17 games last season, emerged as a pivotal figure for the Patriots, leading the team with 71 solo tackles and securing two interceptions. Since his selection in the second round from Lenoir-Rhyne in 2020, the 28-year-old has amassed a total of nine interceptions and 343 combined tackles over the course of the past four seasons.

Initially placed under the one-year transition tag by the Patriots, Dugger’s future with the team hung in the balance until July 17, with negotiations for a long-term contract ongoing. Otherwise, he would have been entitled to earn an average salary equivalent to the top 10 players at his position for the upcoming season, estimated at approximately $14 million.

 

The Titans trade a seventh-round pick to Cleveland for a reserve offensive tackle.

The Tennessee Titans have finalized a trade deal with the Cleveland Browns, acquiring offensive tackle Leroy Watson IV in exchange for a seventh-round pick in the upcoming NFL draft. The trade, announced by the Titans on Friday, is contingent on Watson passing a physical examination. Tennessee aims to bolster its offensive line depth with this acquisition, sending the No. 227 overall pick to Cleveland.

Standing at 6 feet 5 inches and weighing 311 pounds, Watson appeared in seven games for the Browns during the previous season. Following his stint with Cleveland, he spent the 2022 season on the San Francisco practice squad after entering the league as an undrafted free agent from Texas San Antonio. Notably, Watson showcased his versatility by initially playing as a tight end, amassing 25 catches for 297 yards and two touchdowns.

Titans’ general manager Ran Carthon previously worked with San Francisco in 2022, while the team’s new offensive line coach, Bill Callahan, coached the Browns’ offensive line last season. This familiarity likely influenced the Titans’ decision to pursue Watson.

The acquisition addresses pressing needs for the Titans, particularly at offensive tackle and tight end. Coach Brian Callahan highlighted the team’s shortage of tight ends during discussions with reporters earlier in the week as the Titans commenced their offseason program.

The need for offensive tackle depth became more pronounced following the injury setbacks suffered by Taylor Lewan, the three-time Pro Bowl left tackle, who tore his right ACL for the second time in three seasons in September 2022. With the seventh overall pick in the upcoming draft, the Titans are expected to prioritize addressing the left tackle position.