Stefon Diggs optimistic on new Patriots deal, ACL restoration

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — Veteran large receiver Stefon Diggs says he took only one free agent go to — to the New England Patriots — earlier than formally signing his three-year contract with the group Friday.

“I used to be contemplating a pair different locations, however that is all up to now now,” Diggs stated at Gillette Stadium.

Diggs’ contract is price $69 million, a supply informed ESPN’s Adam Schefter, which is the vary the large receiver stated he anticipated when it comes to common per season, partly as a result of he’s coming off a torn ACL in his proper knee sustained Oct. 27 whereas enjoying for the Houston Texans.

“I form of figured [the contract] was going to be round that space, contemplating I am coming off the damage, but in addition the truth that I am one of many solely receivers that had six 1,000-yard seasons consecutively [before the injury],” he stated. “The manufacturing, it is at all times been right here. I can transfer the chains. I can do intermediate. I can go deep. I did that each one all through my profession. My résumé in all probability speaks for itself, nevertheless it was extra so the damage that will deter or make the cash is what it’s.

“I have a look at it positively as a chance. What may’ve been, may’ve been. At this level I’m the place I’m, and I am grateful.”

Diggs, 31, was launched by the group Friday and was joined by his mom, Stephanie, who sat within the entrance row as he answered questions from reporters.

He stopped wanting setting a timetable for when he can be able to follow however sounded inspired with how his knee has responded.

“I am forward of schedule. I am making an attempt to remain forward of schedule,” he stated. “I have been fairly severe concerning the grind course of, so far as the rehab and all the things.”

Diggs stated he has had solely transient contact with second-year quarterback Drake Maye however is raring to start growing a rapport with him, just like how he did with Buffalo Payments quarterback Josh Allen from 2020 to 2023.

“It is loopy as a result of, once you ask round, folks say he acts loads like Josh. And you recognize, that was my man,” Diggs stated. “We performed him final yr, and he confirmed a whole lot of struggle. He has that fiery quarterback ‘I wish to win’ mindset. In order that’s one thing I get enthusiastic about and like to be round.”

Patriots coach Mike Vrabel informed the “Inexperienced Mild” podcast, hosted by former NFL participant Chris Lengthy, that signing Diggs was a transfer made with Maye in thoughts.

“Simply making an attempt to ensure we’re supporting Drake and supporting the soccer group,” Vrabel stated. “This can be a extremely aggressive, assured receiver that is produced all through his profession and a number of methods. He is received a play energy to him. He can play bodily, [has] route craft, good on the catch level, has been good within the crimson zone. There is a play fashion to him that I’ve at all times appreciated. … His dialog, his demeanor, his angle and his presence have been nice by way of our conversations.”