In a significant move for both the player and the franchise, the New England Patriots have secured a new wide receiver in Stefon Diggs, agreeing to a three-year contract worth $69 million, which includes $26 million guaranteed. This deal, confirmed on March 25, 2025, marks a crucial step in the Patriots' strategy to bolster their offense and give quarterback Drake Maye an elite target.
Diggs, 31, is in the process of recovering from a season-ending ACL injury he sustained in October 2024 during a game with the Houston Texans. Prior to the injury, he had managed an impressive tally of 47 receptions for 496 yards and three touchdowns within just eight games, demonstrating his capability as a top-tier receiver. His connection with quarterback C.J. Stroud was particularly promising, with Stroud achieving a passer rating of 104 when targeting Diggs, completing 73% of his passes in those scenarios.
The Patriots' desire for a No. 1 receiver was evident in their efforts to sign fellow wideout Chris Godwin, but when Godwin chose to return to Tampa Bay, they turned their attention to Diggs. Diggs visited Foxborough the week prior to signing, which solidified the team's interest in bringing him on board.
Bringing Diggs into the fold boosts a receiving corps that already features notable names such as Mack Hollins, Kendrick Bourne, Kayshon Boutte, and DeMario Douglas. The Texans originally acquired Diggs from the Buffalo Bills, effectively wiping out the last three years of his contract, making him available as a free agent this offseason.
During his time with the Bills, Diggs became known for his production and influence on the game. He recorded four consecutive seasons with over 100 receptions, joining the ranks of NFL greats like Antonio Brown and Marvin Harrison. After being drafted in the fifth round by the Minnesota Vikings in 2015, Diggs has amassed 857 receptions for 10,491 yards and 71 touchdowns, solidifying his place among the elite wide receivers in the league.
Notably, Diggs’ move to the Patriots represents a fresh chapter post-injury, as he looks to return to form following a track record of stellar performances. He had achieved six consecutive seasons of at least 1,000 receiving yards prior to his injury last year, which marked a significant transition for the veteran.
Throughout his career, particularly during his time in Buffalo, Diggs established a reputation for being a fierce competitor and a reliable target. He led the NFL in receptions and receiving yards during the 2020 season, earning himself a first-team All-Pro selection and garnering multiple Pro Bowl honors.
The Patriots have made substantial roster changes this offseason, with head coach Mike Vrabel aiming to reinvigorate the team following a disappointing 4-13 season in 2024, marking their second consecutive season of finishing with that record. They now also hold the fourth overall pick in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, indicating a clear desire to improve their competitiveness.
In addition to Diggs, the Patriots have made several key additions to their roster, including offensive tackle Morgan Moses and center Garrett Bradbury, targeting improvements on both sides of the ball. The team is also focused on enhancing their defense, having recently provided defensive tackle Milton Williams with a historic contract and signing other notable defensive stars such as cornerback Carlton Davis and linebacker Robert Spillane.
The signing of Stefon Diggs is seen as a pivotal move for the Patriots. Despite his recent injury, he remains a formidable presence who could turn the tides for the struggling franchise, giving them an edge in a fiercely competitive AFC East division.
While some may question if Diggs can reclaim his prior heights, the Patriots are banking on his experience and talent to provide the dynamic playmaking ability they have sorely missed. If Diggs returns to form, he can not only help elevate the team but also significantly influence the development of second-year quarterback Drake Maye, as they work to build a formidable offensive threat.
As the offseason continues and the draft approaches, the Patriots are positioned to be a team to watch. The signing of Stefon Diggs represents both an aggressive move to enhance their current roster and a hopeful bet on a player known for his prolific performances on the field.
