The New England Patriots have made waves in the offseason, securing a high-profile addition to their roster. Stefon Diggs, a four-time Pro Bowler and elite wide receiver, has inked a massive three-year, $69 million deal with the team. As one of the most talked-about signings of the year, reactions from both Patriots insiders and national analysts have been pouring in. Here’s a roundup of what the experts are saying about the move and how it could reshape New England’s offense.
The Big Picture: Stefon Diggs Adds a Much-Needed Threat to New England’s Offense
It’s no secret that the Patriots have struggled in recent seasons to find a top-tier wide receiver. With their quarterback situation still uncertain and a lack of proven offensive playmakers, acquiring a player of Diggs’ caliber represents a bold statement of intent. Despite his age—he’s 31 years old—and a significant knee injury (he tore his ACL in 2024, ending his season), Diggs’ potential impact cannot be overstated.
For Patriots fans, there’s a sense of hope that this signing could be the key to unlocking a new chapter for the offense, and perhaps, the entire team.
Julian Edelman Weighs In: A Familiar Face with a Bold Take
Julian Edelman, former Patriots wide receiver and current Fox Sports analyst, didn’t mince words when it came to Diggs’ fit in New England. In his opinion, Diggs has a unique chip on his shoulder that could fuel his performance with the Patriots.
“I like Stefon Diggs in New England, that situation, because Stefon Diggs is still pissed off at the Bills,” said Edelman. “That’s a great place for a guy like him to land.”
Edelman’s comments highlight the fierce rivalry between the Patriots and Buffalo Bills, a division feud that could motivate Diggs to deliver at a high level, especially with a fresh start in New England.
A Veteran’s Perspective: The Patriots Need a True No. 1 Receiver
Brian Baldinger, NFL Network analyst, echoed the importance of the move, calling Diggs the answer to New England’s need for a bona fide No. 1 wide receiver.
“They need a No. 1 wide receiver,” said Baldinger. “He’s wearing this No. 1 for a reason. He’s gonna help the New England Patriots and Drake Maye and their passing offense.”
While the Patriots have a solid defensive foundation and a strong running game, their passing offense has been inconsistent. Diggs brings not only elite talent but also the kind of experience that could stabilize the passing attack and help young quarterback Drake Maye (if he’s the starter) find his rhythm early in his career.
The Doubts: Will Diggs Be the Same After the ACL Tear?
Despite the excitement surrounding Diggs’ potential, there are legitimate concerns about his recovery from the ACL injury. Many experts have pointed out the risk involved in such a hefty contract for a player coming off a major knee injury.
An anonymous AFC executive spoke candidly to the Boston Herald about the signing, admitting that the deal felt “a little rich for a 31-year-old coming off ACL.” However, he acknowledged that when you’re dealing with a major need at the wide receiver position, a team may have to overpay.
“Feels a little rich for a 31-year-old coming off ACL,” said the AFC exec. “But when you have a major need, it’s natural to overpay a little.”
This sentiment reflects the uncertainty many analysts feel about Diggs’ ability to return to full form, though Patriots brass seem confident in his recovery and ability to contribute immediately.
Adam Schefter’s Insight on Diggs’ Recovery Timeline
Adam Schefter, ESPN’s NFL insider, offered additional reassurance, noting that Diggs is “on track to return for Week 1 of the upcoming season.” This timeline is important for the Patriots, who are banking on Diggs being ready to contribute right away.
“Diggs, who’s coming off a torn ACL suffered in Week 8 vs. the Colts, is on track to return for Week 1 of the upcoming season. It was another reason the Patriots felt comfortable giving Diggs the three-year, $69 million deal,” Schefter explained.
The expectation is that Diggs will be ready for the start of the season, which mitigates some of the risk associated with the signing.
The Bigger Picture: How Diggs Changes the Locker Room
Stefon Diggs’ addition isn’t just about his on-field performance; it’s also about his leadership and competitiveness. Patriots insiders are already buzzing about the impact he will have in the locker room.
Albert Breer, writing for Sports Illustrated, highlighted the intangible qualities that Diggs will bring to the team: competitiveness and professionalism. Breer noted that the Patriots locker room had its fair share of struggles in 2024, and Diggs could help turn things around.
“That’s a lot for a guy coming off an ACL, but I applaud him for doing it,” Breer said. “He’s going to bring a level of competitiveness, a level of professionalism, a level of, ‘This is how we do it here’ to a room that badly, badly, badly needed it.”
As one Patriots coach put it, “If he’s healthy, they got themselves a dawg. They just gotta make sure to feed him.”
A Leader on and off the Field
While some of the reactions to Diggs’ signing are cautious, others are confident in his ability to inspire the team. Mike Giardi of Boston Sports Journal noted that Diggs’ work ethic and leadership style will be a huge asset to a locker room that needs direction.
“On Stefon Diggs, a coach who knows him well tells me, ‘If he’s healthy, they got themselves a dawg. They just gotta make sure to feed him,’” Giardi shared.
For a team that has struggled to maintain a consistent identity in recent years, Diggs’ hunger and professionalism could be just the spark New England needs.
A Bold Gamble with Big Potential
In the end, the New England Patriots have made a bold move by signing Stefon Diggs. Despite concerns about his recovery from the ACL injury, the potential rewards of adding a top-tier wide receiver are clear. If Diggs can return to his Pro Bowl form, he could be the key to revitalizing New England’s offense and returning the team to its former glory.
For now, Patriots fans can only hope that Diggs’ competitive spirit and immense talent are enough to overcome any lingering doubts. As Mike Giardi succinctly put it, “If he’s healthy, they got themselves a dawg.” The ball is now in