New England Patriots Set To Release WR Stefon Diggs

The New England Patriots plan to part ways with veteran wide receiver Stefon Diggs when the 2026 league year begins next week.

A league source said the move stems largely from financial considerations. Diggs’ salary cap hit was set to jump from $10.5 million to $26.5 million. His contract also included a clause guaranteeing an additional $6 million if he remained on the roster beyond next week.

After the news surfaced, Diggs acknowledged the moment publicly. The 32-year-old posted a message on Instagram thanking the organization and supporters.

“Thank you for a hell of a year,” he wrote. “We family forever.”

Diggs joined the Patriots last March on a three-year, $69 million deal and quickly became the team’s top receiving option. He led the club during the regular season with 85 receptions for 1,013 yards and four touchdowns. His production helped stabilize the offense and gave quarterback Drake Maye a dependable target.

The veteran receiver also contributed during the Patriots’ playoff run that ended at Super Bowl LX. Diggs recorded 14 catches for 110 yards and a touchdown across four postseason games while frequently drawing top defensive coverage.

Away from the field, Diggs faces legal scrutiny tied to an alleged dispute with his personal chef. Authorities filed felony strangulation and related charges. Diggs has pleaded not guilty. A pretrial hearing is scheduled for April 1.

With Diggs expected to depart, New England must reshape its receiving group. Veterans Mack Hollins and Kayshon Boutte headline the returning unit alongside DeMario Douglas.

Head coach Mike Vrabel addressed the challenge during the NFL Scouting Combine, noting that elite receivers rarely reach free agency. “You have to draft them,” Vrabel said. “You develop them.”

The Patriots hold 11 selections in the upcoming draft, including the No. 31 overall pick. Finding a new primary target will be a priority this offseason.