New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs finds himself in a serious legal predicament that could threaten his NFL career. The player is now confronting felony charges of strangulation or suffocation, alongside a misdemeanor count of assault and battery, as per court documents revealed on Tuesday.
Details of the Legal Charges and Court Proceedings
The charges were formally announced at the Dedham District Court in Massachusetts. Diggs' legal representative, attorney Michael DiStefano, participated in the hearing via telephone. The alleged incident is said to have taken place on December 2, which was the day following the Patriots' victory over the New York Giants on Monday Night Football.
In a significant development, DiStefano has requested the court to seal the police report from public view. He also disclosed that his client, Stefon Diggs, has made a financial settlement offer to the individual bringing the allegations, in an effort to resolve the matter privately. Diggs has categorically denied all accusations against him.
A judge is now set to decide whether the specifics of the case will be impounded. Diggs is scheduled for an arraignment on January 23, though this date might be postponed to March to avoid clashing with the Patriots' potential postseason games.
NFL's Personal Conduct Policy and Potential Sideline
The charges immediately trigger scrutiny under the NFL's stringent Personal Conduct Policy. According to the policy's guidelines, a player can be placed on the Commissioner Exempt List—a form of paid administrative leave—under several circumstances relevant to Diggs's case.
The league can act if a player is formally charged with a felony or a crime of violence, which includes acts involving physical force that pose a genuine danger to others. This action does not imply guilt but allows the league to investigate while removing the player from active participation.
Other grounds include an ongoing investigation that suggests a policy violation, or during a preliminary review of alleged violent conduct. Placement on this list would render Diggs ineligible to play, though he would continue to receive his salary.
Reactions from the NFL and the Patriots
The National Football League has acknowledged the situation. In a statement, the NFL confirmed, "We are aware of the matter and have been in contact with the club. We have no further comment at this time." This indicates the league is monitoring developments closely but has not yet decided on any disciplinary action.
The New England Patriots have issued a statement expressing initial support for their player while the legal process unfolds. "The New England Patriots are aware of the accusations that have been made regarding Stefon Diggs. Stefon has informed the organization that he categorically denies the allegations. We support Stefon," the team said.
They added that they will continue to gather information and cooperate fully with authorities and the NFL. The team has not confirmed whether Diggs will be available for their crucial Week 18 final regular-season game against the Miami Dolphins.
What's at Stake for Diggs and the Patriots
The implications are substantial both on and off the field. For Stefon Diggs, this legal battle puts his professional future and reputation at risk. The 32-year-old receiver signed a lucrative three-year contract worth $69 million with the Patriots in March, with $26 million guaranteed.
On the field, his absence would be a major blow to the team. In his debut season with New England, Diggs has been their top performer, leading the squad with 82 receptions and 970 receiving yards, along with four touchdowns over 16 starts.
With the Patriots poised for a deep playoff run as the regular season concludes, the league's decision regarding Diggs's playing status could become a pivotal factor in their championship aspirations. The authority to restrict his participation rests solely with the NFL office, not the Patriots organization.
