The New England Patriots have made the decision to release veteran wide receiver Stefon Diggs after just one season. This move comes as a surprise, particularly in light of the team”s successful run to the Super Bowl and Diggs” strong performance during his time in New England.
Diggs had signed a three-year, $69 million contract with the Patriots last March. However, the financial structure of the deal allowed the organization to effectively treat it as a one-year contract. With his base salary set to soar from $2.9 million to $20.6 million in 2026, and a cap hit projected to rise to $26.5 million, the Patriots opted to part ways with him before the start of the new league year.
Despite these financial factors, questions remain regarding the decision, as Diggs was a productive player on the field. He wrapped up the 2025 regular season with 85 receptions, 1,013 yards, and four touchdowns, serving as a vital target for quarterback Drake Maye.
Former NFL tight end and analyst Shannon Sharpe believes that the Patriots” choice was influenced by more than just salary considerations. During a discussion with Chad Johnson, Sharpe suggested that there may have been concerns regarding distractions related to Diggs off the field. “I thought he did a great job in the locker room. I thought he was great being available when he played — he balled out,” Sharpe commented. “But I think the distractions off the field are too much for them.”
Sharpe acknowledged that the allegations surrounding Diggs have not been proven but pointed out that the Patriots” organizational philosophy often shows little tolerance for off-field controversies. “Everything is an allegation. None of it has been proved,” he noted. “But knowing that organization, if it ain”t football related, they ain”t trying to hear about it.”
Johnson largely concurred with Sharpe”s views but highlighted that Diggs has demonstrated he can still perform at a high level. He speculated that Diggs would not remain on the market for long and mentioned a potential fit with the Baltimore Ravens, given Diggs” roots in the DMV area. “I think Diggs had a great season — he had a thousand-yard season,” Johnson remarked. “He”s going to get picked up. I won”t be surprised if he ends up in Baltimore.”
This scenario would connect Diggs with the Ravens and quarterback Lamar Jackson, providing Baltimore with an additional veteran receiving option while keeping Diggs close to his hometown.
Sharpe also countered the notion that Diggs” release signifies a decline in his productivity, suggesting that the receiver could improve as he continues to recover from a previous ACL injury. “He got some juice left though. I know he ain”t done,” Sharpe stated. “Now he”ll be two years removed from that ACL, so he should be better than he was this year.”
With the Patriots focusing on younger receivers and gaining additional salary-cap flexibility, Diggs now enters free agency once again. Considering his impressive track record and experience, it is likely that another contender will soon provide the veteran wideout with his next opportunity.
