A $26.5 million cap hit. A looming March deadline. A Super Bowl-caliber offense at stake.
The Patriots’ decision on Stefon Diggs is coming — and it could reshape their entire 2026 season.

Patriots Racing Toward Stefon Diggs Decision as Cap Crunch and Court Date Loom

INDIANAPOLIS — The New England Patriots have a dilemma. And it won’t linger much longer.

After leading the team with 85 receptions and 1,013 receiving yards, Stefon Diggs proved he could still be a difference-maker at age 32. He helped stabilize the offense, elevated Drake Maye’s development, and played a central role in the Patriots’ return to AFC relevance.

But production doesn’t erase math.

Diggs carries a $26.5 million cap hit in 2026. And with the veteran wideout turning 33 next fall, New England must decide whether that number makes sense for the future.

Multiple sources told MassLive that the Patriots are actively working toward a resolution, with clarity expected in the coming weeks.

The clock is ticking.

Diggs is owed $6 million in guarantees on March 13.

The Three Scenarios on the Table

Behind the scenes, league sources describe three possible outcomes — and none are simple.

1️⃣ Restructure or Bust

One source indicated that if Diggs wants to remain in New England, he may need to restructure his deal significantly.

The Patriots are reportedly open to an incentive-laden contract, allowing Diggs to earn his money back if he produces at a high level again.

That approach protects the team while rewarding performance.

But it requires Diggs to agree.

And that’s where uncertainty begins.

2️⃣ Stand Firm — And Walk Away?

Another source suggested Diggs may be unwilling to restructure after leading the team in multiple receiving categories.

From his perspective, he delivered.

Why take a pay cut?

If Diggs refuses, the Patriots could free up $16.8 million by releasing him outright — or up to $20.8 million with a post-June 1 designation.

That level of cap flexibility is tempting.

However, replacing his production is far from guaranteed.

The upcoming free-agent wide receiver class is considered thin. And New England holds the 31st overall pick in the draft — not ideal positioning for landing a sure-fire WR1.

Cutting Diggs saves money.

But it creates a vacuum.

3️⃣ Swallow the Cap Hit

A third source believes the Patriots may ultimately keep Diggs on his current deal.

Why?

Because Drake Maye needs weapons.

The organization understands that downgrading the receiver room could stall the growth of their franchise quarterback.

And that risk might outweigh financial discomfort.

As one league observer put it: supporting Maye is the priority. Period.

Vrabel’s Carefully Measured Response

When asked at the NFL Combine about Diggs’ future, head coach Mike Vrabel kept his answer diplomatic.

“He worked extremely hard… was a really good presence each and every week,” Vrabel said. “We’re constantly evaluating the football team.”

Translation: no guarantees.

Vrabel acknowledged that conversations are happening — not just about Diggs, but about every player on the roster.

The season ran long. Decisions must follow quickly.

The Legal Shadow

Complicating matters further is Diggs’ legal situation.

He is scheduled for an April 1 pretrial hearing after pleading not guilty to felony strangulation and misdemeanor assault and battery charges.

While the team hasn’t publicly tied that situation to contract discussions, off-field uncertainty inevitably factors into high-dollar decisions.

The Stakes

The Patriots returned to prominence in part because they took a risk on Diggs last year.

It worked.

But now they face a crossroads:

Bet on a 33-year-old receiver at a $26.5M cap number
Push for a restructure
Or pivot toward a younger, long-term solution

The March 13 guarantee date is fast approaching.

One way or another, the Patriots’ decision is coming.

And it will define the shape of their 2026 roster.