There's no guarantee New England Patriots returning starter Kyle Dugger will trot out with the first-teamer to begin the season. Mike Vrabel confirmed Wednesday that the veteran safety has been relegated to reps with the 2s while recovering from offseason ankle surgery that perhaps has stunted his development against others vying for snaps.

Safety Kyle Dugger and outside linebacker Anfernee Jennings, two long-time starters on the Patriots’ defense who signed contract extensions just last year, both played into the fourth quarter of Saturday’s 20-12 preseason win over the Vikings. Those snaps are usually saved for young roster hopefuls trying crack the 53-man roster or practice squad.