Safety Kyle Dugger signs one-year deal with Bengals

Veteran defensive back joins Cincinnati after stints with Patriots and Steelers

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:55pm

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A dynamic, fragmented painting depicting a defensive back in mid-interception, with sharp geometric planes and vibrant colors representing the energy and intensity of the play.The Bengals' acquisition of veteran safety Kyle Dugger represents a strategic move to strengthen their defensive backfield through a fractured, cubist-inspired visual.Today in Pittsburgh

Free agent safety Kyle Dugger has signed a one-year contract with the Cincinnati Bengals, his agent Drew Rosenhaus announced on Thursday. Dugger, 30, spent the past four seasons with the New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers, recording 483 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and 11 interceptions in 90 career games.

Why it matters

The Bengals are looking to bolster their secondary after a disappointing season, and the addition of Dugger, a versatile defensive back with a track record of playmaking, could provide a significant boost to their defense.

The details

Dugger signed a four-year, $58 million contract with the Patriots in 2024 after receiving the transition tag. He was then traded to the Steelers last October, where he finished the 2025 season. In 16 games (13 starts) between the two teams, Dugger recorded 59 tackles and two interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown.

  • Dugger signed a one-year deal with the Bengals on April 2, 2026.
  • He was traded from the Patriots to the Steelers on October 28, 2025.

The players

Kyle Dugger

A 30-year-old safety who has spent the past four seasons in the NFL, playing for the New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers.

Drew Rosenhaus

Dugger's agent, who announced the signing of the one-year contract with the Bengals.

Cincinnati Bengals

An NFL team based in Cincinnati, Ohio, that is looking to improve their secondary after a disappointing 2025 season.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to add a player of Kyle's caliber to our defense. He's a versatile defensive back who can make plays all over the field.”

— Zac Taylor, Head Coach, Cincinnati Bengals

What’s next

The Bengals will look to integrate Dugger into their defensive scheme during the offseason program and training camp, with the goal of having him ready to contribute in a significant way when the 2026 NFL season begins.

The takeaway

The Bengals' signing of Kyle Dugger is a savvy move to bolster their secondary, as the veteran safety brings a proven track record of playmaking and versatility to a team looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 campaign.