ICYMI: Patrick Chung Voices His Approval Of Kyle Dugger’s Number Change

Robert Alvarez

3 years ago at 6:54 pm ET

Derick E. Hingle - USA TODAY Sports

Earlier this week, the New England Patriots revealed some new jersey numbers for the 2021 squad.

For second year safety Kyle Dugger, he elected to swap his rookie number “35” for the familiar number “23” worn by previous longtime safety Patrick Chung, who announced his retirement this offseason.

During his second stint with the Patriots from 2014-2019, Chung sported “23” after wearing “25” from his rookie season through 2012 before playing in Philadelphia with the Eagles for one season in 2013.

After electing to opt out of the 2020 season over COVID-19 concerns, Chung formally retired from the NFL back in March.

On Tuesday, Chung shared his approval of Dugger’s number swap with a tweet, stating “Wear it well young savage”.

Wear it well young savage @kingdugg_3

— Patrick Chung (@PatrickChung23) May 25, 2021

Although both safeties wound up never playing together, Chung reportedly kept in touch with Dugger throughout the 2020 season.

“He definitely still chimes in and helps out,” Dugger said last December. “Gives a lot of tips, things to look for when going into the game. Anytime he chimes in I’m definitely always listening and trying to pick up whatever he’s telling me.”

With Chung no longer playing, Dugger will look to continue the recent success of Patriots safeties wearing 23 this fall.