Why Stefon Diggs is only on the waiting list of NFL teams after getting cut by the Patriots

Stefon Diggs free agency situation explained by Tom Pelissero

Tom Pelissero explained Diggs’ situation as he broke down why the former Patriots wide receiver is still waiting for offers.

“He is certainly one of the top free agents that’s still on the board. The thing is at this stage in free agency, you’re getting to that point like unless you’re willing to sign like a one-year, five million type deal, there’s just not a lot of offers out there,” Pelissero said.

He added: “Diggs may well get more than that but I mean you can go right down the list. … But if you’re not a first or second wave player, if your expectation is to get money, you may have to wait a little bit.

“See who swings and misses in the draft.”

The explanation highlights how the free agency market shifts quickly, leaving even established players without immediate opportunities if expectations do not align.

Diggs’ situation reflects that second phase, where patience becomes part of the process.

Stefon Diggs waiting list situation after Patriots release

Pelissero added further context on why Stefon Diggs is effectively in a holding pattern until after the NFL Draft.

“See who wants to sign you after the draft when it no longer impacts their compensatory formula and once you get past those early ways of free agency, a lot of teams just fundamentally don’t want to mess with the formula,” Pelissero continued.

He concluded, stating: “And so it’s kind of let’s circle up after the draft. If we don’t get our guy, there might be a deal out there for you in May.”

The strategy from teams is clear: avoid disrupting draft plans and salary structures before making late additions.

That leaves players like Diggs in a waiting position, dependent on how rosters take shape over the coming weeks.

For now, his next move is tied less to performance and more to timing within the league’s wider offseason cycle.