Stefon Diggs’ First Patriots Highlight Is an Epic Puppy Pursuit

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Andy Hageman | Last updated Jul 24, 2025 12:15 PM ET

When Stefon Diggs stepped onto the New England Patriots practice field for his first training camp session, nobody, not even Diggs himself, expected the elite receiver would be showcasing his route-running skills against a four-legged opponent.

The moment was captured on video, showing Diggs confidently strutting with a small Beagle mix before placing it down near the sideline. The puppy immediately executed a perfect post route toward freedom, leaving Diggs scrambling like a cornerback beaten deep.

Talk about an unexpected conditioning drill. Training camp opened Wednesday with a puppy adoption event, creating the perfect storm for comedy gold. Diggs found himself running routes he never practiced, pursuing a receiver who clearly hadn't studied the playbook and showed zero respect for his Pro Bowl credentials.

The chase sequence lasted longer than most Patriots drives last season. Diggs displayed impressive hustle tracking down his furry teammate, proving his ACL recovery is ahead of schedule. The puppy's breakaway speed would have impressed scouts, though its hands clearly need work.

Patriots fans witnessed their new $63.5 million investment in action, though not quite the highlight reel material they envisioned. Diggs signed his lucrative three-year deal after an injury-shortened 2024 season with Houston, where he managed just 47 catches for 496 yards before his Week 8 ACL tear derailed his campaign.

The lighthearted moment provided comic relief for a franchise desperately needing reasons to smile. Before his Houston Texans detour, Diggs torched opposing defenses for four consecutive 1,000-yard seasons with the Buffalo Bills.

His Patriots debut might have resembled a circus act, but fans got an early preview of his competitive fire. Whether chasing touchdowns or tail-waggers, Diggs refuses to quit on any play.

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

More must-reads: