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Nick Wagoner
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Mike Reiss
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Mike Reiss
ESPN Staff Writer
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Mike Reiss has reported on the New England Patriots since 1997 and joined ESPN in 2009, receiving accolades such as the Massachusetts Sportswriter of the Year in 2019.
The New England Patriots made significant trades by sending defensive end Keion White to the San Francisco 49ers and safety Kyle Dugger to the Pittsburgh Steelers, as reported by ESPN sources.
In return, the Patriots received a sixth-round pick in the 2026 draft from the 49ers for White, along with a seventh-round pick. They also acquired a sixth-round pick from the Steelers for Dugger, who will help offset part of Dugger’s remaining $9.75 million salary, as stated by sources.
Both White and Dugger were previously starters under the Bill Belichick and Jerod Mayo coaching regimes but had transitioned to backup roles under Mike Vrabel’s leadership. White, a second-round draft choice in 2023, notched five sacks in his second season.
The 49ers are addressing defensive end shortages due to injuries, notably losing star Nick Bosa for the season due to a torn ACL in Week 3. Recently, they struggled against the Houston Texans, ranking last in the NFL in pressure percentage (21.3%) and pass-rush win rate (33.8%).
White, despite having a diminished role this season with the Patriots, previously demonstrated promise, playing a critical role during his rookie year with four starts. The 49ers hope to bolster their pass rush with his addition.
Dugger, a notable contributor for the Steelers, comes after strong safety DeShon Elliott sustained a knee injury. Elliott’s departure raises concerns for Pittsburgh’s secondary, necessitating adjustments against upcoming opponents.
Contributors to this report include Brooke Pryor from ESPN.
