In a surprising move that shakes up the AFC East, wide receiver Stefon Diggs has signed a three-year, $69 million contract with the New England Patriots, including $26 million in guaranteed money. This addition brings another top-tier receiving option to New England for second-year quarterback Drake Maye as the Patriots aim to build a competitive roster amidst fierce division rivalry with the Jets.

Stefon Diggs #1 of the Houston Texans warms up prior to an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts at NRG Stadium on October 27, 2024 in Houston, Texas.
Stefon Diggs is joining the Patriots.Getty Images

A Major Signing for the Patriots

Diggs, who had been one of the top free agents still on the market, made his way to Foxborough last week for a visit with the Patriots before officially finalizing the deal. The signing comes after a challenging season for the receiver, who was forced to leave the 2024 season early due to an ACL tear during an October game against the Colts. Despite the injury setback, the Patriots are hoping Diggs’ recovery will bring stability and playmaking ability to their offense as they look to strengthen their roster.

Recovery and Rehab Progress

Diggs’ ACL recovery is ahead of schedule, with ESPN reporting that the 31-year-old receiver is already running at full speed and showing comfort with cutting and changing direction. However, the timeline for his full recovery remains uncertain, and the expectation is that he may not be fully ready when training camp begins in the summer. Still, Diggs’ experience and skill set provide the Patriots with a significant weapon as they continue to build a dynamic offensive unit.

Houston Texans wide receiver Stefon Diggs (1) turns upfield after a pass reception in the flat during the football game between the Indianapolis Colts and Houston Texans on October 27, 2024 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas.

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A Proven NFL Veteran for Drake Maye

As the third overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, Drake Maye will now have a reliable veteran receiver in Diggs to help elevate his game in the upcoming season. With a decade of NFL experience, Diggs brings a wealth of knowledge to the Patriots’ young quarterback. Before his injury, Diggs had six consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, a streak that ended in 2024, and has amassed an impressive 5,868 receiving yards since 2020, ranking sixth in the league.

Diggs’ 40 career touchdowns rank him seventh in the NFL, and his proven track record as a top receiving option will be invaluable for Maye’s development. During his time with the Houston Texans in 2024, Diggs recorded 47 receptions for 496 yards and three touchdowns, making him a key target for quarterback C.J. Stroud. Despite his injury, Diggs’ value as a key player in the Patriots’ offense cannot be overstated.

Diggs’ Temperamental Past and the Patriots’ Confidence

While Diggs is widely regarded as one of the premier wide receivers in the NFL, his career has also been marked by some controversy. The receiver’s temperamental nature led to trades out of both Minnesota, the team that drafted him in 2015, and Buffalo, where he spent four seasons. His difficult reputation, however, has been pushed back on by his teammates, including C.J. Stroud, who defended Diggs in 2024, saying the receiver had received an unfair “bad rap” due to media portrayal.

For the Patriots, adding a player of Diggs’ caliber is an effort to address their offensive needs and put the team in a position to contend for playoff spots. The contract makes it clear that New England is willing to take a chance on Diggs’ talent, even if there are lingering questions about his personality. However, with a strong support system in the Patriots’ locker room and the leadership of head coach Bill Belichick, the team is hopeful Diggs’ experience will benefit the franchise both on and off the field.

Houston Texans wide receiver Stefon Diggs warms up before an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Oct. 13, 2024, in Foxborough, Mass.

Looking Ahead: A Competitive AFC East

As the Patriots sign Diggs and continue to strengthen their roster, the competition in the AFC East is set to intensify. The Jets, with a growing lineup and a determined roster, remain a formidable rival, but with a strengthened receiving core and an exciting young quarterback in Maye, the Patriots are sending a clear message: they are not backing down in the race for AFC East supremacy.

With the 2025 season just around the corner, all eyes will be on how Diggs fits into the Patriots’ offense and whether his recovery from injury can help lead New England back to prominence. For now, the Patriots’ acquisition of Diggs is a clear signal that they are committed to competing at the highest level and are building a roster capable of contending for championships in the coming years.