Patriots Cut Star Receiver Stefon Diggs After One Season

Diggs' large contract and off-field issues led to his release despite a productive year

Mar. 13, 2026 at 8:34pm

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The New England Patriots have released star wide receiver Stefon Diggs after just one season with the team. Diggs had a strong 2025 campaign, catching 85 passes for 1,013 yards and 4 touchdowns, but his large 3-year, $69 million contract and off-field legal issues ultimately led to the Patriots parting ways with the veteran receiver.

Why it matters

Diggs was expected to be a key weapon for the Patriots after their Super Bowl LX appearance, but his release highlights the team's focus on managing the salary cap and avoiding potential distractions, even from high-profile players. The move also signals the Patriots' confidence in their younger receiving corps, led by the recently signed Romeo Doubs.

The details

The Patriots signed Diggs as a free agent last offseason, hoping the 32-year-old receiver could provide a veteran presence and proven production to complement their young quarterback Drake Maye. Diggs delivered on the field, but his large contract and off-field legal troubles stemming from a December incident made him expendable for the Patriots.

  • Diggs was charged with felony strangulation and misdemeanor assault in late December 2025.
  • The Patriots released Diggs in March 2026, shortly after the Super Bowl LX loss.

The players

Stefon Diggs

A veteran wide receiver who spent the 2025 season with the Patriots after previous stints with the Vikings, Bills, and Texans. Diggs is a former Pro Bowler and had over 1,000 receiving yards for the Patriots in 2025 before his release.

Drake Maye

The Patriots' starting quarterback in 2025 who was an MVP runner-up, leading the team to the Super Bowl in his first season as the starter.

Mike Vrabel

The Patriots' head coach who guided the team to a successful 2025 season and Super Bowl LX appearance.

Romeo Doubs

A wide receiver the Patriots signed in free agency from the Packers to be a key weapon for their offense moving forward.

Eliot Wolf

The Patriots' general manager who remains open to the possibility of Diggs returning on a more team-friendly deal.

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What’s next

The Patriots and General Manager Eliot Wolf remain open to Diggs returning on a more team-friendly deal, though he would likely have to accept a pay cut and a lesser role on the roster.

The takeaway

The Patriots' decision to release Stefon Diggs after just one season highlights the team's pragmatic approach to managing the salary cap and roster, even for high-profile players. The move signals a shift towards younger, more cost-effective options at wide receiver as the Patriots look to build on their successful 2025 campaign.