The franchise tag deadline has come and gone with the New England Patriots opting to use the transition tag on safety Kyle Dugger. That move alone knocked offensive lineman Mike Onwenu out of the running for the franchise tag.
So, what does it all mean for the Patriots?
The transition tag will allow the Patriots an opportunity to match any outside offers for Dugger, who has stepped up as a leader in the defensive backfield after Devin McCourty retired. However, they’re risking losing Onwenu on the open market without a tag in place.
The veteran offensive lineman showed off his versatility last season when working in at both right tackle and guard. Tackle is arguably the biggest trouble spot on the Patriots’ roster, and with Trent Brown also set to be a free agent, the team could lose both of its starters on the open market.
It’s a scary situation for a team expected to select a rookie quarterback at No. 3 overall in the 2024 NFL draft.
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