Patriots Get Bad News on Offseason Addition's Health Status

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Andy Hageman | Last updated Jul 16, 2025 5:30 PM ET

The New England Patriots made one of the boldest moves of the 2025 offseason by signing wide receiver Stefon Diggs to a three-year, $69 million deal with $26 million guaranteed. The risk? Diggs is still recovering from a torn ACL suffered in October 2024.

At age 31, Diggs is fighting the clock to be ready for Week 1. He’s impressed in meetings and limited drills, and Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel praised his “energy and focus” during offseason workouts.

Diggs has been rehabbing at Alkemē Sports RX in Florida, working to regain speed and explosiveness. He told reporters he’s “focused on being better,” and is already performing sprint drills and sharp cuts in training.

According to a March report, Diggs is “ahead of schedule” in recovery and hopes to be cleared by camp.

The stakes are high. New England had the league’s worst receiving output in 2024, with tight end Hunter Henry leading the team in yards. The Patriots are counting on Diggs not only to be their top target but also to help develop young quarterback Drake Maye, who showed promise as a rookie but lacked a reliable No. 1 receiver.

Maye and Diggs have already begun building chemistry, working together in private sessions this spring. Teammates say Diggs’ leadership has elevated the receiver room.

If Diggs is delayed, the Patriots may have to lean on free agent Mack Hollins or explore adding another veteran wideout. The team-friendly structure of Diggs’ contract, loaded with incentives and health protections, reflects cautious optimism.

If he returns to the kind of form that tempted the Patriots, Diggs could help transform a stagnant offense and accelerate Maye’s development. But if the injury lingers or his explosiveness fades, New England could face yet another frustrating season.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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