In Foxborough, Massachusetts, the New England Patriots have certainly made waves this offseason by making a significant investment to support their promising quarterback, Drake Maye. Up until now, the Patriots seemed to be running short on ammunition to boost their offense. However, everything took a dramatic turn on Tuesday night.
The Patriots decided to make a bold move by signing veteran wide receiver Stefon Diggs to a three-year, $69 million deal, with $26 million guaranteed. This acquisition is aimed at providing Maye, in his second year with the team, with the top-tier pass catcher he was missing last season. Diggs is recognized for his exceptional route-running skills that could greatly benefit the Patriots’ offensive strategy.
Despite Diggs being 31 and recovering from a torn ACL he sustained last October, he emerges as the standout choice for the Patriots. His rehab is reportedly progressing well, and he’s expected to be ready for the first week of the season, according to Adam Schefter from ESPN. This could prove to be a worthwhile gamble for the Patriots seeking to revitalize their passing game.
To put the move into perspective, last season, Patriots’ receivers ranked 28th in the league, collecting just 161 catches, 10 touchdowns, and a meager 1,723 receiving yards. This lackluster performance left them tied for the fewest first downs alongside the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Before Tuesday, the Patriots only other move to bolster their receiving corps was signing Mack Hollins on a two-year, $8.4 million contract. While Hollins is a physical presence at 6-foot-4 and 221 pounds, securing Diggs indicates a stronger commitment to an offensive upgrade, especially considering the return of Josh McDaniels as offensive coordinator. This strategic approach makes the most of Maye’s rookie contract.
With Diggs onboard, the Patriots have acquired a receiver who had six consecutive 1,000-yard seasons before his injury last year. The team hasn’t seen such a feat since Julian Edelman achieved it in 2019.
Patriots fans, familiar with Diggs’ prowess from his time with the Buffalo Bills, will recall his impressive track record against them. Over his career, he has amassed 61 catches for 779 yards and eight touchdowns against New England, his second-best numbers against any team.
The reaction among Patriots players was enthusiastic on social media, with cornerback Christian Gonzalez and wide receiver Kendrick Bourne highlighting their excitement.
Last season, Houston’s quarterback C.J. Stroud praised Diggs, noting his tremendous impact on the team, expressing hope for his return to the Texans back in January.
The budding partnership between Maye and Diggs is likely to be one of the season’s most fascinating narratives. Their recent social media interactions are a sign of the bond beginning to form between them.
Prior to finalizing the deal with Diggs, the Patriots explored multiple options during the free agency period that began March 10. They pursued receiver Chris Godwin, who returned to the Buccaneers for less money, considered trading for DK Metcalf who went to the Steelers, and passed on Cooper Kupp, who later joined the Seattle Seahawks.
Ultimately, Diggs and the Patriots seem to be an ideal fit. Diggs secures a lucrative contract post-injury, while the Patriots fill a pressing void in their lineup, with finances to facilitate the deal.
Nonetheless, the work isn’t finished. The left side of their offensive line still needs addressing, likely in the upcoming draft.
This strategic addition has the potential to be transformative for New England, with Drake Maye poised to be the greatest beneficiary of this strengthened offensive lineup.
