There are always surprising releases during the time between free agency and when the league year begins. However, the New England Patriots have pulled off a truly shocking release, as Stefon Diggs is set to be released.
Diggs ended the regular season with 1,013 yards and four touchdowns. While his production certainly did not take a dip, his release may be related to some other unknown issue.
Diggs emerged as the top target for Drake Maye following his recovery from a torn ACL he suffered in 2024 as a member of the Houston Texans. With his arrival in New England, he quickly established a rapport with Maye.
Diggs and the Patriots made it to the Super Bowl in a season where nobody thought the organization would be as competitive as it was. New head coach Mike Vrabel had a profound impact on the team, though they were bested by the Seattle Seahawks.
On top of the 1,013 receiving yards Diggs secured in the regular season, he also brought in 110 yards and one touchdown in the playoffs.
Whatever club Diggs goes to next, it will be his fifth team throughout his career. He originally began his career with the Minnesota Vikings, playing from 2015 to 2019. He would be sent to the Buffalo Bills for a package that included a first-round pick.
Following his four seasons with the Bills, Diggs was once again traded, this time to the Texans. Unfortunately, the ACL injury would end what could have been a lucrative season for the longtime veteran.
Diggs has seven seasons of over 1,000 yards, is a two-time All-Pro, four-time Pro Bowler, and was the receptions and receiving yards leader in 2020.
With his shocking release, expect many teams to jump in on landing the downfield threat. Some initial teams that may be interested are the Los Angeles Chargers, Baltimore Ravens, and Los Angeles Rams.