Patriots Land Stefan Diggs

Stefan Diggs has been recognized as one of the premier offensive weapons in the NFL for the better part of the last decade, consistently demonstrating his ability to change the dynamics of a game with his impressive skill set. Initially entering the league as a promising talent with the Minnesota Vikings, Diggs's journey took an unexpected turn last season when he signed with the Houston Texans. Unfortunately, his tenure in Houston was marred by injury, as a serious knee injury sidelined him after just eight games, forcing the dynamic wide receiver to end his season.

However, as Diggs now embarks on a crucial new chapter in his career, he appears to have found solid footing with a fresh opportunity. Recently, he reached an agreement with the New England Patriots on a three-year deal that could be valued at an impressive $69 million, featuring $26 million guaranteed, as reported by several media sources. This significant contract underscores the belief that he still possesses the ability to enhance an offense, with hopes that he will be the target who can elevate QB Drake Maye's game to the next level.

Last season, Diggs was traded alongside a sixth-round draft pick for a second-round and a fifth-round pick, reflecting Houston's investment in bolstering its roster. During those eight games, he managed to accumulate 496 receiving yards and three touchdowns. However, the decision by the Buffalo Bills to part ways with Diggs stemmed from concerns regarding his performance trends; over the past few seasons, he has exhibited signs of decline. His yards per game have dropped noticeably from 89.3 in 2022 to 69.6 in 2023, culminating in a steep decline to just 62 yards in the most recent season. Similarly, his touchdown receptions have decreased significantly—from 11 to 8 and then down to 3 in this timeframe.

Despite these concerns, it is essential to recognize Diggs's strong track record, which bolsters his reputation as a capable contributor in any system. He made four consecutive Pro Bowl appearances during his four seasons with the Bills and boasted six 1,000-yard seasons throughout his career, which originally began in Minnesota. Additionally, he has amassed an impressive total of 70 career touchdowns, a testament to his enduring talent and competitiveness. While he may no longer be considered an unquestioned No. 1 receiver, Diggs still possesses the skills and experience that allow him to be a valuable asset to any offense, providing essential support to a young QB and his supporting cast.