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Patriots WR Coach 'Excited' To Reunite With Top Free Agent Addition

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jordan Woodson | Last updated Apr 4, 2025 10:11 AM ET

After crossing paths with the Minnesota Vikings in 2018, New England Patriots wide receivers coach Todd Downing is familiar with free-agent addition Stefon Diggs. Downing worked as the Vikings' tight ends coach at the time, but what he saw left an impression on the long-time NFL assistant coach.

In recent conversations with reporters, Downing couldn't contain his excitement about reuniting with Diggs in New England.

“Seeing (Diggs) as a little bit more mature version of himself on the visit here, it was so awesome to reconnect with him and see where he’s at in life and hear about some of his ups and downs throughout the years we were apart. Excited to be back with him for sure.”

According to Marc Daniels of Mass Live, "Downing was part of the Patriots contingent that met and went out to dinner with Diggs during his free-agent visit to New England."

While Downing downplayed his role in recruiting the wide receiver, he stated, “I’m excited that we got him” and described his previous season with Diggs as “awesome.”

During his five seasons in Minnesota, Diggs hauled in 365 receptions, 4,623 yards, and 30 touchdowns. He was then traded to the Buffalo Bills in 2020, quickly establishing himself as one of the league's top wide receivers. In his four seasons with quarterback Josh Allen, Diggs accumulated 445 receptions, 5,372 receiving yards, and 37 touchdowns.

Before suffering an ACL injury last season, Diggs started eight games for the Houston Texans, recording 47 receptions for 496 receiving yards and three touchdown catches on 64 targets.

With only $16.6 million of Diggs' contract guaranteed, he must perform well to receive the bulk of his money. If healthy, Downing seems eager to help him earn every penny.

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

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