Drake Maye Dealt Bad Update After Stefon Diggs News

That success was made possible in part by the weapons around him. Several pass catchers contributed during the Patriots’ deep postseason run, including tight end Hunter Henry and emerging wideout Kayshon Boutte. One of the most important additions to the offense was also veteran receiver Stefon Diggs, who provided experience, route-running precision and a reliable target for the young quarterback.

But heading into the offseason, the Patriots made a surprising decision to release Diggs, leaving Maye without one of his most experienced receivers as the team prepares for the 2026 campaign. With the veteran wideout gone, New England was immediately linked to potential replacements across the league.

One name that surfaced quickly was A.J. Brown, the Philadelphia Eagles’ star receiver. The Patriots were reportedly among the teams considered strong candidates to pursue Brown if the Eagles chose to move him in a trade. However, that possibility now appears unlikely.

According to Philadelphia radio host Anthony Gargano, the Patriots offered a significant package in an attempt to acquire the All-Pro wide receiver.

The proposed deal reportedly included a first-round pick and a third-round pick, but the Eagles declined the offer.

“Howie is holding firm and now you’re seeing teams like Buffalo that were in it [moving on],” Gargano said on Friday.

Missing out on a player like Brown is significant for New England. The star wide receiver has established himself as one of the NFL’s most dominant pass catchers. He has produced six 1,000-yard campaigns in his seven-year career, and served as the centerpiece of Philadelphia’s passing attack since joining the franchise in 2022.

The latest development means the Patriots’ search for a reliable veteran receiver to support Maye will continue, with Indianapolis Colts’ Alec Pierce emerging as another potential target. With the 2026 season approaching, it remains to be seen how New England’s front office will address the need and ensure its franchise quarterback has the weapons necessary to build on last year’s remarkable run.