The Patriots shocked fans by cutting their top receiver.
But the story might not be finished yet.
Patriots Explain Stefon Diggs Release â But Leave Door Open for Stunning Reunion
FOXBOROUGH â When the New England Patriots released Stefon Diggs early in the offseason, the move stunned many around the NFL.
After all, Diggs had just played a major role in the Patriotsâ run to Super Bowl LX, becoming the first New England receiver since 2019 to surpass 1,000 receiving yards.
Yet despite his impact, the team made the difficult decision to move on.
Now Patriots executive Eliot Wolf is explaining why the team cut ties with the veteran star â while also revealing something surprising: a reunion isnât completely off the table.
Why the Patriots Released Diggs
According to Wolf, the decision to release Diggs came down to a combination of factors.
The biggest one was financial.
Diggs was set to carry a $26.5 million cap hit next season, and the Patriots ultimately decided the number didnât fit their long-term roster plans.
Age also played a role. Diggs will turn 33 years old next season, and the team had to weigh his future production against the rising cost of his contract.
âJust a variety of factors,â Wolf explained. âLooking at financials, ability, a lot of things go into this.â
Despite the move, Wolf made it clear the organization still respects the veteran receiver.
âWe have nothing but respect for Stefon. He was an absolute warrior for us.â
Patriots Tried Other Options
Before releasing Diggs, the Patriots reportedly explored several alternatives â including restructuring his contract.
But after reviewing different possibilities, the team ultimately chose to move forward with a roster reset.
By releasing Diggs, New England freed up roughly $16 million in salary cap space, along with $22.5 million in cash flexibility.
Those resources allowed the Patriots to quickly make their next move.
Romeo Doubs Arrives in Free Agency
Shortly after the release, New England signed Romeo Doubs to a four-year, $68 million contract.
Doubs is expected to become a major piece of the Patriotsâ passing attack alongside quarterback Drake Maye.
The younger receiver brings a combination of speed, red-zone ability, and long-term upside that fits the teamâs evolving offense.
Still, Doubs alone may not fully replace Diggsâ production.
Patriots Still Searching for More Weapons
The Patriots are continuing to evaluate ways to improve their receiving corps.
One major rumor involves Philadelphia Eagles star A.J. Brown, who has been linked to New England in potential trade discussions.
But Wolfâs comments also hinted at another possibility: Diggs could theoretically return.
âI wouldnât say the doorâs closed,â Wolf said. âWeâre going to look through every way we possibly can to help improve the team.â
A New Approach to the Receiver Room
For now, the Patriots appear ready to spread responsibilities across multiple receivers.
In addition to Doubs, the current wide receiver group includes:
- Kayshon Boutte
- Mack Hollins
- Kyle Williams
- DeMario Douglas
- Efton Chism III
Rather than relying on a single superstar receiver, the Patriots may build a balanced offense with multiple playmakers.
Wolf even questioned the idea that every team needs a traditional No. 1 receiver.
âHow many of them are there in the NFL?â he said. âMaybe half the teams have one.â
For now, the Patriots are moving forward without Diggs.
But with the door still slightly open, the possibility of a surprising reunion in Foxborough remains alive.
Leave a Reply