Why Stefon Diggs gave Drake Maye a Michael Vick message during Patriots' playoff win over Chargers

A recent video clip shared by the New England Patriots featured New England wide receiver Stefon Diggs encouraging quarterback Drake Maye to run with the football more during the club's 16-3 wild-card playoff win over the Los Angeles Chargers on Jan. 11. 

While speaking with reporters on Wednesday, Diggs revealed what he was thinking in that moment. 

Stefon Diggs doesn't mind if Drake Maye turns into Michael Vick

"Whatever it takes for us to win the game," Diggs explained, per Chris Mason of MassLive. "I don’t care how it comes out. We’re in the (playoffs). I’m going to throw as many blocks as I can. I’m going to tell him that his next play is his best play. He’s a hell of a player. I just want to see him continue to grow. I’m just trying to be an echo of some positive energy. If using his legs is what’s needed, then turn into Michael Vick. I’m with whatever."

Of course, Vick is known as arguably the greatest "running quarterback" in league history. Maye has a ways to go before he is part of such conversations, but he did lead the Patriots with 66 rushing yards on 10 attempts against the Chargers. To compare, he tallied 103 total carries over 17 regular-season contests -- good for slightly over six attempts per game. 

Meanwhile, Diggs recorded just two catches for 16 yards in the postseason victory. 

History shows that a No. 1 wide receiver such as Diggs would often complain about a quarterback calling his own number early and often during a game. There was once a time when Diggs may have confronted Maye on the sideline about the receiver's role in the offense. 

While Diggs admitted on Wednesday that he wants the ball, he also understands what Maye can offer the New England offense as a dual-threat talent. 

How Drake Maye's legs open things up for the Patriots

"He’s a hell of an athlete," Diggs added about Maye. "I feel like he makes plays with his legs. I feel like he’s comfortable using his legs. Whatever it takes to help the quarterback settle in, too. You never know. Using your legs (could) make him loosen some other things up. Being a receiver, you never know. It can take the corner’s eyes off you." 

One can only guess how often Maye will embrace his inner Vick when the Patriots host the Houston Texans for a divisional-round playoff clash on Sunday.