After releasing Stefon Diggs, the New England Patriots face a major offseason challenge: finding a new No. 1 target for quarterback Drake Maye. 🏈🚨
How the Patriots Can Replace Stefon Diggs in 2026
The New England Patriots’ decision to release Stefon Diggs creates a significant hole in their offense just weeks before the start of NFL free agency.
Diggs was a key contributor during the team’s run to the Super Bowl, leading New England in several receiving categories in 2025.
Diggs’ 2025 production
- 85 receptions
- 1,013 receiving yards
- 51 first downs
- 17 receptions of 20+ yards
- 4 touchdowns
Despite that success, the Patriots chose to move on primarily for financial reasons. The move will cost the team $9.7 million in dead cap, but it also frees $26.5 million in cap space for the upcoming season.
Now the big question becomes: How will New England replace him?
Option 1: Sign Free-Agent WR Alec Pierce
One potential solution is free agent wide receiver Alec Pierce.
The former Colts receiver has been one of the NFL’s most explosive deep threats over the past two seasons and recently posted career highs in 2025.
Pierce’s 2025 numbers
- 37 receptions
- 1,003 yards
- Led NFL in yards per reception over the past two seasons
Pierce has expressed interest in expanding his role beyond deep routes, which could make him an intriguing fit alongside Drake Maye, who led the NFL in:
- Completion percentage (72%)
- Yards per attempt (8.9)
With a larger role in New England’s offense, Pierce could develop into a legitimate No. 1 target.
Option 2: Trade for A.J. Brown
Another, more aggressive option would be trading for Philadelphia Eagles star A.J. Brown.
The connection makes sense because Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel drafted Brown in Tennessee and still maintains a close relationship with the receiver.
Brown is reportedly available for the right price, though the Eagles are said to be asking for:
- A first-round pick
- Additional draft compensation
While expensive, adding a proven star like Brown could accelerate the Patriots’ push back toward championship contention.
Option 3: Draft a Wide Receiver in Round 1
If the Patriots prefer a long-term approach, they could use the No. 31 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft on a top receiver prospect.
Several intriguing options could be available late in the first round.
Potential draft targets
Denzel Boston – Washington
- 6’4”, 209 pounds
- Two straight seasons with 800+ yards and 60+ receptions
- 19 touchdowns over the past two years
KC Concepcion – Texas A&M
- 61 catches, 919 yards, 9 TDs in 2025
- Also an elite return specialist with 456 return yards and two touchdowns
Omar Cooper Jr. – Indiana
- 69 receptions, 937 yards, 13 touchdowns
- Key contributor to Indiana’s national championship run
Building Around Drake Maye
Whatever route the Patriots choose, their offseason strategy will revolve around continuing to build the offense around Drake Maye.
Maye delivered an MVP-caliber season and helped lead New England to a surprising Super Bowl appearance.
Giving him a reliable top target will be essential if the Patriots hope to remain contenders in the 2026 season.
Leave a Reply