Falcons Suggested to Acquire All-Pro WR Despite Off-the-Field Concerns

Sports Illustrated suggests the Falcons should target Stefon Diggs, but his legal issues raise red flags.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 9:05pm

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting a football player in motion, broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in a variety of colors.A conceptual illustration of the risks and complexities involved in acquiring a talented but troubled NFL player.Atlanta Today

The Atlanta Falcons are in need of wide receiver help heading into the 2026 NFL season, and Sports Illustrated has suggested the team should target two-time All-Pro Stefon Diggs. However, Diggs is currently facing an assault allegation stemming from an alleged dispute with his personal chef, which could complicate any potential acquisition.

Why it matters

The Falcons have typically avoided taking risks on players with off-the-field concerns, but they did make an exception last season by signing edge rusher James Pearce Jr. despite pre-draft character concerns. Pearce's legal troubles have now left his status for the upcoming season uncertain, which could make the Falcons hesitant to take on another high-risk player like Diggs.

The details

Diggs rebounded from a disappointing, injury-riddled 2024 season with the Houston Texans, proving he can still produce at a high level. However, the New England Patriots released him despite his key role in their Super Bowl run, citing financial reasons. Diggs is currently facing an assault allegation that stems from an alleged dispute with his personal chef, and he has pleaded not guilty to felony strangulation and other criminal charges.

  • Diggs was released by the New England Patriots in the 2026 offseason.
  • Diggs is currently facing an assault allegation that stems from an alleged dispute with his personal chef.

The players

Stefon Diggs

A two-time All-Pro wide receiver who is currently facing an assault allegation that could complicate his free agency.

James Pearce Jr.

An edge rusher signed by the Falcons last season despite pre-draft character concerns, who is now facing three felony charges and has an uncertain status for the upcoming season.

Drake London

A wide receiver currently under contract with the Falcons.

Casey Washington

A wide receiver currently under contract with the Falcons.

Olamide Zaccheaus

A wide receiver signed by the Falcons in the 2026 offseason to help rebuild depth at the position.

Jahan Dotson

A wide receiver signed by the Falcons in the 2026 offseason to help rebuild depth at the position.

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What they’re saying

“The tape doesn't lie, and Diggs was extremely productive last year with 85 receptions for 1,013 yards and four touchdowns.”

— Gilbert Manzano, Sports Illustrated Writer

“Even if he resolves his legal matters, it's going to be difficult for Diggs to find a team to bet on him as he enters his age-33 season.”

— Gilbert Manzano, Sports Illustrated Writer

What’s next

The judge in Diggs' assault case will decide in the coming weeks whether to allow him to be released on bail.

The takeaway

While the Falcons are in need of wide receiver help, the off-the-field concerns surrounding Stefon Diggs make him a high-risk acquisition that the team should likely avoid, especially given their recent experience with a player facing legal troubles.