The New England Patriots, one of the NFL’s most storied franchises, are facing a tumultuous moment as star wide receiver Stefon Diggs confronts serious legal troubles just as the team heads into the postseason. The 32-year-old receiver, who has been a vital part of the Patriots’ offense this season, is facing felony charges of strangulation or suffocation and a misdemeanor assault and battery charge, stemming from an alleged incident on December 2, 2025, involving his former private chef at his Dedham, Massachusetts home.
The complaint, filed by the woman who had worked as Diggs’ private chef, details a disturbing encounter. According to multiple court documents and police reports, the dispute began over money she claimed Diggs owed her for her services. The woman alleged that Diggs entered her unlocked bedroom, “smacked her across the face,” and “tried to choke her using the crook of his elbow around her neck.” She said she struggled to breathe and “felt like she could have blacked out.” When she tried to pry his arm away, Diggs allegedly tightened his grip and then threw her onto the bed. The woman claimed she was still owed one month’s pay from Diggs at the time of the incident.
The timeline of the complaint is notable. The Patriots had just come off a resounding 33-15 Monday Night Football victory over the New York Giants on December 1, with the alleged incident occurring the following night. The woman first reported the incident to police on December 16 but initially declined to press charges. It wasn’t until December 22 that she decided to formally pursue charges, prompting the case to be brought to Dedham District Court.
Diggs’ legal team has responded forcefully to the allegations. His attorney, David Meier, issued a statement declaring, “Stefon Diggs categorically denies these allegations. They are unsubstantiated, uncorroborated, and were never investigated — because they did not occur. The timing and motivation for making the allegations is crystal clear: they are the direct result of an employee-employer financial dispute that was not resolved to the employee’s satisfaction. Stefon looks forward to establishing the truth in a court of law.”
In addition to Meier’s statement, Diggs’ legal counsel has requested that the police report be impounded and that the details remain sealed, a request that was discussed during a motion hearing on December 30. The arraignment is currently scheduled for January 23, 2026—just two days after the AFC Championship Game, should the Patriots advance that far. However, the presiding judge has indicated that the date could be pushed to March, reflecting the complexity and sensitivity of the ongoing legal process.
The Patriots organization, for their part, have thrown their support behind Diggs. In a statement provided to the media, the team said, “Stefon has informed the organization that he categorically denies the allegations. We support Stefon. We will continue to gather information and will cooperate fully with the appropriate authorities and the NFL as necessary. Out of respect for all parties involved, and given that this is an ongoing legal matter, we will have no further comment at this time.”
The NFL has also acknowledged the situation, stating that it is “aware of the matter and have been in contact with the club.” This signals the league’s intent to monitor developments closely, though no disciplinary action has been announced as of yet.
On the field, Diggs has been a key playmaker for New England since signing a three-year, $69 million contract with the Patriots in March 2025. After rehabbing a torn ACL sustained last season with the Houston Texans, he joined the Patriots late in free agency and quickly became quarterback Drake Maye’s favorite target. In his first season in Foxborough, Diggs has racked up 82 receptions for 970 yards and four touchdowns, helping the Patriots clinch the AFC East division on December 28 and secure a spot in the playoffs.
Diggs’ journey to New England has been eventful. A native of Gaithersburg, Maryland, and a University of Maryland product, he previously played for the Minnesota Vikings, Buffalo Bills, and Houston Texans. His veteran presence and reliable hands have made him a standout in the Patriots’ receiving corps, and his contributions have been especially crucial as the team navigates the challenges of a playoff push.
Off the field, Diggs’ personal life has also been in the spotlight. His girlfriend, Grammy-winning singer Cardi B, gave birth to their son in November 2025, adding another layer of public interest to his already high-profile persona.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the Patriots are left to balance their playoff ambitions with the uncertainty surrounding one of their top offensive weapons. The team’s statement of support reflects both a desire to stand by their player and a recognition of the seriousness of the allegations. With the arraignment set for late January—potentially overlapping with the NFL postseason—the situation threatens to cast a shadow over the Patriots’ quest for another Super Bowl appearance.
The allegations against Diggs have sparked debate among fans and commentators. Some see the timing of the complaint and the nature of the financial dispute as raising questions about motivation, while others emphasize the gravity of the accusations and the need for a thorough investigation. The fact that the woman initially declined to press charges, only to change her mind days later, has added to the complexity of public opinion.
For now, Diggs remains active on the Patriots’ roster, and the organization has made it clear they will cooperate fully with authorities and the NFL. The league’s personal conduct policy could come into play depending on the outcome of the court proceedings, but any decisions on suspension or discipline are likely to wait until more information becomes available.
With the AFC playoffs looming and the spotlight fixed on Foxborough, the Patriots’ locker room faces an unusual test of focus and resilience. Will the team rally around their embattled star, or will the off-field drama prove to be a distraction as they chase championship glory? As the legal process plays out and the NFL postseason heats up, all eyes will be on Stefon Diggs, the Patriots, and the unfolding story that has gripped the football world.
For now, the Patriots continue their preparations for the playoffs, standing by Diggs while the legal process takes its course. The next chapter will be written in the courtroom—and on the field—as New England’s season and Diggs’ future hang in the balance.
