The New England Patriots just released their top receiver — but don’t expect them to replace him with another superstar.
Instead, their next offensive weapon might come from an unexpected position.

Patriots May Replace Stefon Diggs With Tight End — Not a Star Receiver

The New England Patriots shocked many fans this offseason by releasing wide receiver Stefon Diggs, their leading receiver from last season.

Diggs bounced back from a torn ACL to post 85 catches for 1,013 yards in 2025, making him quarterback Drake Maye’s top target during the Patriots’ run to the Super Bowl.

His release freed up $6 million in salary-cap space, but it also left a major question for New England’s offense:

Who replaces Diggs?

According to NFL analyst and former Panthers star Steve Smith, the answer might not be another wide receiver.

The Patriots Could Shift Focus to Tight Ends

Instead of chasing high-priced receivers like Tyreek Hill or Mike Evans, Smith believes the Patriots could strengthen their offense by targeting another tight end.

“I think the thing people aren’t paying attention to with New England is the tight end position,” Smith said while speaking to ESPN.

The idea may sound surprising at first.

Veteran tight end Hunter Henry already had a strong season in offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels’ system, recording 60 receptions, 768 yards, and seven touchdowns.

But Smith pointed to McDaniels’ history with the Patriots as a reason why the team might double down on the position.

History Could Repeat Itself

During McDaniels’ previous tenure in New England, the Patriots built one of the most dangerous offenses in NFL history by pairing Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez.

The two-tight-end system created mismatches across the field and forced defenses into difficult personnel decisions.

Smith believes McDaniels could try to recreate that strategy again.

“They may do some things that may shock some people,” Smith said. “Think about what Josh has always had in his offense.”

Potential Targets in Free Agency

If the Patriots pursue another tight end, several intriguing names could be available.

Two players frequently mentioned as potential fits include:

Isaiah Likely (Baltimore Ravens)

27 catches, 307 yards, 1 touchdown in 2025
Career-high 477 yards and 6 touchdowns in 2024

Chig Okonkwo (Tennessee Titans)

56 receptions, 560 yards, 2 touchdowns last season
Known for athleticism and yards-after-catch ability

Both players are young, dynamic receiving tight ends who could complement Henry in the Patriots’ offense.

The Draft Could Offer Options Too

New England might also look to the upcoming NFL Draft.

Some notable tight end prospects include:

• Kenyon Sadiq (Oregon)
• Eli Stowers (Vanderbilt)
• Max Klare (Ohio State)

While Sadiq is expected to be selected early, other prospects could still be available when the Patriots pick No. 31 overall in the first round.

Trusting the Young Receivers

Another reason the Patriots may avoid spending big on a receiver is their belief in the current roster.

The team has a young receiving corps that includes:

• Kayshon Boutte
• Kyle Williams
• Efton Chism III
• Mack Hollins

Smith believes those players should be given an opportunity to grow.

“The only way your young core really starts to develop is baptism by fire,” he explained.

In other words, the Patriots may prefer development over expensive replacements.

Building Around Drake Maye

Ultimately, the Patriots’ decisions this offseason will revolve around their young quarterback.

Drake Maye led New England to the Super Bowl in just his second season, and the franchise is determined to build a sustainable offense around him.

Adding another tight end — rather than chasing a superstar receiver — could create a more versatile attack while maintaining financial flexibility for future moves.

And if history repeats itself, New England’s next offensive weapon might line up next to Hunter Henry rather than outside the numbers.