Head Coach Mike Tomlin Speaks Out After the Dominant Debut of the $60 Million Safety Who Shut Down the Colts’ Offense – “This Might Be the Most Successful Move the Steelers Have Made in Years.”
Head Coach Mike Tomlin Speaks Out After the Dominant Debut of the $60 Million Safety Who Shut Down the Colts’ Offense – “This Might Be the Most Successful Move the Steelers Have Made in Years.”
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – November 4, 2025
Less than a week after being traded from the New England Patriots, Kyle Dugger — the Steelers’ new $60 million safety — has already made a powerful statement in black and gold. The former Patriots standout, who recorded 125 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 2 forced fumbles in 2024, wasted no time proving why Pittsburgh made the move. In the Steelers’ 27–20 victory over the Indianapolis Colts, Dugger played every defensive snap and was instrumental in a unit that forced six turnovers.
Right after the game, head coach Mike Tomlin couldn’t hide his excitement when asked about his newest defensive weapon:
“Can’t say enough about Dugger,” Tomlin said. “He just got here, but he already understands our system, communicates on the field like a veteran, and plays with great instincts. When we needed help at the safety position, he didn’t just fill a role — he brought confidence and stability back to our defense.”
Dugger’s transition from New England to Pittsburgh has been seamless. In his very first game as a Steeler, he completely shut down the Colts’ deep passing attack, working in sync with T.J. Watt and Minkah Fitzpatrick to lock down the middle of the field. His arrival has revitalized a defense that many critics had recently labeled as underperforming.
“This might be one of the best acquisitions we’ve made in years,” Tomlin continued. “He’s not only having an immediate impact, but he’s also giving us long-term stability. I truly believe Dugger is going to become one of the cornerstones of this franchise.”
Dugger himself expressed gratitude for the opportunity to step in and contribute right away:
“I just tried to learn as quickly as I could and do my job,” Dugger said. “The guys here made it easy for me to feel like I’ve been part of this team for a long time.”
With the win, the Steelers improve to 5–3, and if Dugger keeps playing at this level, he may not only be the missing piece of Pittsburgh’s defense — but the next great leader of the Steelers’ new era.
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