The New England Patriots are moving on from Stefon Diggs, and quarterback Drake Maye didn’t stay silent about it. 💔🏈
His reaction showed just how much the veteran receiver meant to him.
Drake Maye Reacts to Patriots Releasing Stefon Diggs
New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye reacted emotionally after news broke that the team plans to release four-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Stefon Diggs.
The Patriots are expected to officially move on from Diggs at the start of the new NFL league year on March 11, largely due to salary cap considerations.
Shortly after the report surfaced, Maye posted an Instagram story featuring a photo of himself and Diggs along with a heart emoji, signaling appreciation for his veteran teammate.
Salary Cap Played Major Role
Diggs was set to carry a $26.5 million cap hit in 2026, which would have been the second-highest on the Patriots roster behind defensive tackle Milton Williams.
New England reportedly explored the possibility of keeping Diggs on a restructured contract, but the two sides were unable to reach an agreement.
That ultimately led to the decision to release the veteran receiver.
Strong Chemistry in 2025
Despite joining the team while recovering from an ACL injury, Diggs quickly became a favorite target for Maye.
During the 2025 season, Diggs recorded:
- 85 receptions
- 1,013 receiving yards
- 4 touchdowns
It marked the seventh 1,000-yard season of his career and helped boost the Patriots’ passing attack significantly.
Production Slowed in the Playoffs
While Diggs played an important role throughout the regular season, the offense struggled late in the postseason.
His production dropped during the playoffs as the Patriots’ passing game lost some of its momentum.
Still, his overall impact during the season made him one of Maye’s most trusted receivers.
Patriots Now Searching for New WR1
With Diggs gone, the Patriots must now find a new top receiving option for Maye heading into the 2026 season.
Meanwhile, Diggs will enter free agency and look for his fourth team in four years.
For Maye, the move means adjusting without one of the key veterans who helped guide him during an important stage of his young career.
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