The future of Stefon Diggs with the New England Patriots is uncertain as reports suggest the team may release the wide receiver shortly after his Super Bowl appearance. The 32-year-old player recently separated from rapper Cardi B and is currently facing legal challenges related to allegations of strangulation and battery.
Less than a month after contributing to the Patriots” Super Bowl run, Diggs is reportedly on the chopping block due to his hefty contract, which carries a cap hit of $26.5 million. If Diggs wishes to remain with the team, he would need to agree to a restructured deal, as indicated by a report from MassLive. His performance last season saw him lead the Patriots with 85 receptions for 1,013 yards and four touchdowns across 17 games, earning him a three-year contract valued at $63.5 million in March.
Releasing Diggs could save the Patriots $16.8 million against the cap, and the savings could increase to $20.8 million if he is cut with a post-June 1 designation. As the deadline for a guaranteed payment of $6 million approaches on March 13, the team is reportedly “working toward a resolution” and anticipates resolving the situation in the coming weeks.
There is speculation that Diggs may be reluctant to renegotiate his current deal, which could prompt the Patriots to consider his release. The organization is already exploring options for potential replacements to fill the role as the favorite target for rookie quarterback Drake Maye.
Diggs” legal issues have surfaced as he awaits trial for alleged assault against his personal chef, stemming from an incident that occurred during his first season with the Patriots. After entering a not-guilty plea, his attorney expressed confidence that Diggs would be fully exonerated once the facts are reviewed. The alleged assault reportedly arose from a financial disagreement.
In addition to his ongoing legal troubles, Diggs has been named in a defamation lawsuit related to a separate incident in Florida, where a former business partner claims he was falsely accused of stealing a Ferrari and subsequently attacked at a nightclub over these allegations.
The past few months have been tumultuous for Diggs, both professionally and personally, as he also navigates a breakup with Cardi B shortly after the Super Bowl. Cardi confirmed their split during her Little Miss Drama Tour, adding to the challenges Diggs faces in this pivotal moment of his career.
As the Patriots evaluate their options, the next few weeks will be crucial for Diggs as he attempts to secure his position with the franchise amidst significant upheaval in his life.
