NFL: New England Patriots to release Stefon Diggs

The wide receiver is looking for another new side after losing in the Super Bowl last month

NFL: New England Patriots to release Stefon Diggs

The New England Patriots are preparing to move on from veteran wide receiver Stefon Diggs, who is set to be released when the new NFL league year begins next week.

The decision was largely driven by financial considerations, according to reports. Diggs’ salary cap figure was scheduled to jump significantly from $10.5 million to $26.5m, and keeping him on the roster beyond next week would have triggered an additional $6m in guaranteed money.

Shortly after the news emerged, Diggs posted a message on Instagram thanking the organisation and its supporters.

“Thank you for a hell of a year. We family forever.”

Diggs joined New England last offseason on a three-year contract worth $69m and quickly established himself as both a key offensive option and an influential presence in the locker room.

During the 2025 regular season he led the team in receiving, recording 85 catches for 1,013 yards and four touchdowns.

He also contributed during New England’s postseason run to Super Bowl LX, registering 14 receptions for 110 yards and a touchdown across four playoff appearances.

However, Diggs’ future has also been clouded by an ongoing legal matter. The 32-year-old is facing felony strangulation and additional charges linked to an alleged dispute with his personal chef.

Diggs has pleaded not guilty and is scheduled to appear at a pretrial hearing on April 1.

His departure leaves the Patriots needing to reinforce the receiving group around quarterback Drake Maye. The current depth chart includes veterans Mack Hollins and Kayshon Boutte, alongside DeMario Douglas, rookie draft pick Kyle Williams, and undrafted prospect Efton Chism III.