Just weeks after reaching the Super Bowl, the New England Patriots made a decision that stunned the NFL—and it could dramatically reshape Drake Maye’s future.
Patriots Shock NFL by Releasing Star Receiver Stefon Diggs After Super Bowl Run
The New England Patriots are making one of the most surprising moves of the NFL offseason.
According to reports from NFL Network, the Patriots have informed four-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Stefon Diggs that he will be released when the new league year begins on March 11.
The decision instantly sends shockwaves across the league—especially considering Diggs was New England’s top receiver during its 2025 Super Bowl run.
Diggs appeared to acknowledge the news himself, posting a short but emotional message on Instagram:
“We family forever.”
For Patriots fans, the announcement marks the sudden end of a partnership that lasted only one season—but left a significant mark on the offense.
Diggs Was the Patriots’ No. 1 Target
During the 2025 season, Diggs quickly established himself as quarterback Drake Maye’s most reliable weapon.
He finished the year leading the team in both receptions and receiving yards, recording:
85 catches
1,013 receiving yards
4 touchdowns
His production helped fuel the Patriots’ surprising run to Super Bowl LX, where the team fell to the Seattle Seahawks.
Now, with Diggs gone, New England’s offense suddenly faces a massive question mark.
Drake Maye Loses His Top Weapon
The biggest impact of the move may fall on 23-year-old quarterback Drake Maye, who relied heavily on Diggs throughout the season.
With Diggs leaving the roster, the Patriots’ receiving depth chart now features:
Kayshon Boutte
Mack Hollins
DeMario Douglas
None of those players surpassed 551 receiving yards last season, leaving New England without a clear No. 1 receiving option.
For a young quarterback still developing into a franchise leader, losing a proven veteran target could dramatically change the offensive landscape heading into the 2026 season.
Contract and Salary Cap Impact
Diggs joined the Patriots on a three-year, $63.5 million contract, but he ultimately played just one season of the deal.
Only $22.6 million of the contract was guaranteed.
According to Spotrac, Diggs was scheduled to count $26.5 million against the salary cap in 2026, a major financial commitment for a player entering his age-32 season.
By releasing him, the Patriots will absorb:
$9.7 million in dead cap for 2026
$4 million in dead cap for 2027
However, the move also frees up valuable cap space as New England prepares for a busy offseason.
The Patriots were already projected to enter free agency with roughly $35.3 million in available cap space before factoring in the savings from Diggs’ release.
Legal Issues Cloud the Situation
The timing of the decision also raises questions.
Diggs recently pleaded not guilty to charges of felony strangulation and misdemeanor assault and battery.
It remains unclear whether those legal issues played any role in the Patriots’ decision to move on.
The team has not publicly addressed the connection.
Who Replaces Diggs in New England?
With Diggs leaving, the Patriots now face a critical offseason mission: finding a new No. 1 receiver for Drake Maye.
Several potential options could emerge through free agency, including:
Mike Evans (Buccaneers)
Alec Pierce (Colts)
Rashid Shaheed (Seahawks)
Tyreek Hill (Dolphins)
Meanwhile, trade rumors continue to swirl around Eagles All-Pro receiver A.J. Brown, though acquiring him would likely require a major package.
Whether through free agency, the trade market, or the NFL Draft, the Patriots must act quickly if they want to keep their offensive momentum moving forward.
A Surprise Addition to Free Agency
As for Diggs, his sudden release instantly makes him one of the most intriguing names on the market.
Despite being 32 years old, the veteran receiver remains productive and could quickly become a target for contending teams looking for experienced playmakers.
One thing is certain:
The Patriots’ decision has officially turned the NFL offseason upside down—and the ripple effects are only just beginning.
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