Patriots, Stefon Diggs respond to serious allegations with playoffs looming

Frank O'Laughlin of Boston 25 News revealed on Tuesday that New England Patriots star wide receiver Stefon Diggs is facing charges of felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery stemming from an alleged incident that occurred earlier in December. 

Later in the day, the Patriots released a statement to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk. 

Stefon Diggs denies any wrongdoing

"The New England Patriots are aware of the accusations that have been made regarding Stefon Diggs," the club said. "Stefon has informed the organization that he categorically denies the allegations. We support Stefon. We will continue to gather information and will cooperate fully with the appropriate authorities and the NFL as necessary. Out of respect for all parties involved, and given that this is an ongoing legal matter, we will have no further comment at this time."

According to O'Laughlin, the alleged incident took place on Tuesday, Dec. 2. The previous evening, the Patriots earned a 33-15 "Monday Night Football" win over the New York Giants. 

Florio mentioned that Diggs' attorney argued that the police report should stay sealed. However, the NFL could ultimately make Diggs unavailable to play by placing him on the commissioner's exempt list at any point. 

Diggs is scheduled to be arraigned on Jan. 23, two days before the conference championship games will be played. O'Laughlin added that Diggs’ attorney said on Tuesday that the 32-year-old and the reported victim related to this matter are "working to come to an agreement on" a possible financial resolution. 

ESPN stats show that Diggs leads the Patriots with 82 receptions, 99 targets and 970 receiving yards on the season. He's third on the team with four touchdown catches. 

Meanwhile, the 13-3 Patriots recently claimed the AFC East division title and could earn home-field advantage through the playoffs if they beat the Miami Dolphins (7-9) this coming Sunday and the 13-3 Denver Broncos fail to defeat the Los Angeles Chargers (11-5) that same afternoon. Diggs' status for New England's home game against Miami and for upcoming postseason contests was unknown as of Tuesday afternoon. 

First-year Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel typically speaks with media members on Wednesdays.