Stefon Diggs was a pivotal figure in the New England Patriots’ push to Super Bowl LX. Despite his impressive performance last season—becoming the first Patriots wide receiver since Julian Edelman in 2019 to surpass 1,000 receiving yards—questions remain about Diggs’ place on the team moving forward amid salary cap considerations. Signed in March 2025 to a three-year contract, Diggs’ $20.6 million base salary in 2026 is not fully guaranteed, making his future with the Patriots uncertain.
If the Patriots cut Diggs before June 1, they would clear $16.8 million in cap space, according to Over The Cap. Alternatively, a post-June 1 release would allow New England to save $20.8 million by spreading a $9.7 million cap hit over two seasons, 2026 and 2027.
Diggs’ Perspective on His Future in Foxborough
When asked about his expectations for returning to the Patriots in 2026, Diggs expressed cautious optimism.
[Expletive], unless they opt out of the contract,
Diggs said.
I anticipate being here. I hope so. Love my guys. Hell of a year playing with them. We built some real family-like bonds, so I hope so. I don’t control it.
Challenges Off the Field and Age Concerns
Although Diggs excelled in his debut season with the Patriots, he will turn 33 in November and dealt with legal troubles during the 2025 campaign. A court date is scheduled for Friday in relation to assault and strangulation charges stemming from an incident involving a woman who worked as his personal chef. Diggs denies these allegations, and the Patriots have publicly supported him.
Additionally, Diggs faces a civil lawsuit in Florida filed by a man claiming past business connections were damaged due to Diggs’ actions, including allegations of assault by individuals linked to him.
Potential Team Moves Amid Roster and Cap Strategy
As the Patriots look to build on their breakthrough 2025 season, the option to move on from Diggs hinges on whether the team chooses to allocate cap space differently or pursue younger alternatives to complement existing talent like Maye. The decision will reflect New England’s roster priorities and salary cap management strategies heading into offseason negotiations.
Maye’s Support and Belief in Diggs’ Continued Impact
Maye was candid about Diggs’ contributions and future value to the team.
I can’t say enough about what he’s done for us, what he’s done for this team and what he’s proved to himself,
Maye stated. He added,
I think I saw him say something about that, proving to himself the player he is and how he can still be a big-time player in this league, and he showcased that.
He’s got a lot of juice left in the tank, and he told me the other day he’s got a chance to really work on his craft in the offseason.
Performance Reflection and Offseason Outlook
During Super Bowl LX, Diggs caught three passes out of three targets from Maye, gaining 37 yards despite the Patriots’ 29-13 loss.
Man, I wish I would have given him more chances in the game,
Maye remarked.
I know he probably thinks the same way, and I think he’s just been a great force this year.
Maye expects that a full offseason will benefit Diggs, who missed much of the previous year recovering from a torn ACL.
He really didn’t have a chance last offseason coming from an injury, so he’s got a chance to get back and working and just trying get whatever’s left in his body,
Maye commented.
I know there’s some left, and I’m looking forward to getting a chance to hopefully throw him some more passes and watch [No.] 8 go.
Looking Ahead to Diggs’ Role in New England’s Future
Stefon Diggs remains a talented and influential player for the Patriots, but factors including his age, contract details, off-field issues, and team salary cap strategies will determine how long he stays with New England. With his veteran presence and skills still impactful on the field, the team faces a complex decision in balancing roster development and financial flexibility ahead of the 2026 season. Fans and analysts will be closely watching how the Patriots approach managing Diggs’ contract and role as they plan for sustained success.
