Stefon Diggs Says Patriots Future Isn't Up To Him

In his first season in a New England Patriots uniform, Stefon Diggs exceeded expectations on and off the field. The 32-year-old wide receiver came to the Patriots a year removed from a torn ACL with the Houston Texans, and the assumptions that surrounded his on-field behavior.

It's been a match made in heaven for the Patriots and the veteran Diggs, as he became the team's first 1,000-yard pass catcher since Julian Edelman did it in 2019.

But will he remain in New England for 2026? It's up in the air now. After the Patriots loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX, he was asked if he expects to be back in New England next season.

"Oh s---. Unless they opt out of the contract," Diggs told reporters postgame. "I anticipate being here, so I hope so. Love my guys. I had a hell of a year playing with them. Built some real family-like bond, so I hope so. I don't control it though."

Off-Field Issues

Of course, there's more to the story than what's on the field. Diggs was involved in several controversies this season. Before the year began, he was seen partying on a boat with a mysterious pink powder. During the season, Diggs had a child with rapper and Cardi B, but was sued by a woman named Aileen Lopera alleging that he was the father of her child as well, which would later be confirmed by paternity test.

Most recently, Diggs was accused of assault by his personal chef and is facing felony charge of strangulation and a misdemeanor charge of assault. Though he was originally supposed to be arraigned before the AFC championship game, the date was pushed back to February 13th.

While these issues are concerning when it comes to the decision to retain the WR, the team offered their support to Diggs at the time the accusations were made.

What Cutting Diggs In 2026 Would Look Like:

Contractually, Diggs signed a three-year deal worth $69 million last offseason. That contract included $22.6 million in total guarantees. However, his $20.6 million base salary isn't fully guaranteed. The former Pro Bowler has a major cap hit for 2026 ($26.5 million). Should the team move off Diggs before June 1, they'd save close to $17 million in cap space.

Diggs wouldn't compare how his time in New England stacks up to the other places he's played in during his NFL career (Minnesota Vikings, Buffalo Bills, Houston Texans), but said he enjoyed his time with the Patriots.

Feb 8, 2026; Santa Clara, CA, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs (8) warms up before the game against the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images | Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

"Had a hell of a time in Minnesota, had a hell of a time in Buffalo, had hell of a time in Houston," he said. "I don’t compare and contrast. You know, comparison is the thief of joy. I had a good time at all those places. Did it work out? No. But I’m happy where I’m at right now and embrace what I got going on here, so I’m just super thankful."

In his first Super Bowl appearance, Diggs caught three balls for 37 yards. This season, he led the team in both receptions (85) and receiving yards (1,013). If he returns for his second season with the Patriots, he'd likely remain as the top option in Mike Vrabel's passing offense.

Additionally, if the Patriots were to release Diggs in 2027, they would save roughly $22.5 million off the cap, while paying just $4 million in dead money. Something to consider this offseason, though it would be surprising to see the Patriots move on from their star wideout this quickly.

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