Stefon Diggs isn’t planning on going anywhere - at least not if he has a say in it.
Despite a contract that’s about to get a lot heavier on the Patriots’ books, the veteran wide receiver made it clear after New England’s Super Bowl LX loss to the Seahawks that he expects to be back in Foxborough next season.
“Unless they opt out of the contract,” Diggs said after the 29-13 defeat. “I anticipate being here, so I hope so.
Love my guys. I had a hell of a year playing with them.
Built some real family-like bond, so I hope so. I don't control it though.”
That’s the reality of the business side of the NFL. Diggs, who signed a three-year, $69 million deal last March with $22.6 million guaranteed, is looking at a significant cap hit over the next two seasons - $26.5 million in both 2026 and 2027.
For context, his cap number in 2025 was just $10.5 million. That’s a steep jump, and one that gives New England a decision to make.
If they were to move on before June 1, they’d free up $16.8 million in cap space.
Still, Diggs’ production this season makes that a tough call.
At 32, he led the team in every major receiving category: 102 targets, 85 receptions, and 1,013 yards. He was the only Patriots pass-catcher to crack the 1,000-yard mark and played all 17 regular-season games. In a year when New England’s offense had its ups and downs, Diggs was the steady hand - a reliable option who brought veteran leadership and big-play ability to a young, evolving unit.
He also showed up in the postseason, hauling in 14 catches for 110 yards and a touchdown over four games. Not eye-popping numbers, but solid contributions during a playoff run that took the Patriots all the way to the Super Bowl.
Diggs has been around the league long enough to know that nothing’s guaranteed. After stints in Minnesota, Buffalo, and Houston, he’s seen how quickly things can change. But he’s also made the most of every stop.
“Had a hell of a time in Minnesota, had a hell of a time in Buffalo, had a hell of a time in Houston,” he said. “I don't compare and contrast.
You know, comparison is the thief of joy. I had a good time at all those places.
“Did it work out? No. But I'm happy where I'm at right now and embrace what I got going on here, so I'm just super thankful.”
That mindset - appreciative, grounded, and focused on the now - is part of what’s made Diggs such a valuable piece for the Patriots this season. He brought more than just numbers.
He brought presence. And in a locker room that’s still finding its identity post-Brady, post-Belichick, that matters.
Now the ball’s in New England’s court. Do they keep a proven veteran with clear chemistry in the building, or make a cap-driven move to free up space and lean further into a youth movement?
Diggs is ready to return. Whether the Patriots feel the same way - that’s the next big question.