The NFL playoffs are in full swing, but for New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs, the spotlight extends far beyond the gridiron. A critical development in his ongoing legal battle ensures his immediate focus can remain on football, as his court appearance has been officially postponed until after the Super Bowl.
Legal Proceedings Take a Backseat to Playoff Run
Court records confirm a significant delay in Stefon Diggs' legal schedule. His arraignment, which was initially scheduled for January 23, has now been formally moved to February 13. This strategic shift means Diggs will face no immediate legal conflicts during the Patriots' potential postseason journey. The delay, as per filings submitted by his attorney, was due to a "previously-scheduled professional commitment"—clearly, the NFL playoffs.
This postponement is crucial. It guarantees that Diggs remains fully eligible to play for the New England Patriots as long as they continue winning in the playoffs. The team is set to face the Los Angeles Chargers in the Wild Card round, and Diggs' availability is no longer in question from a legal calendar standpoint.
The Gravity of the Allegations and Firm Denials
While the court date is delayed, the serious nature of the accusations has not diminished. The 32-year-old star receiver is confronting felony charges of strangulation or suffocation, alongside misdemeanor assault and battery charges. These stem from claims made by a former private chef regarding an alleged incident said to have occurred on December 2 in Dedham, Massachusetts. The accuser reported experiencing breathing difficulty, though no legal determination has been made yet.
Diggs has categorically denied all allegations. His legal team, led by attorney David E. Meier, has taken an aggressive stance in his defense. In a written statement, Meier dismissed the claims, asserting, "They are unsubstantiated, uncorroborated, and were never investigated - because they did not occur." He further emphasized that Diggs "looks forward to establishing the truth in a court of law."
Overwhelming Support from Team and Partner
The New England Patriots organization has publicly thrown its weight behind its player. In an official statement, the team acknowledged awareness of the accusations and noted Diggs' denial. "We support Stefon. We will continue to gather information and will cooperate fully with the appropriate authorities and the NFL as necessary," the statement read, showcasing a stance of cautious support while the legal process unfolds.
Adding to the vocal backing, Diggs' girlfriend, global music icon Cardi B, has fiercely defended him in public. She has questioned the credibility of the accusations, bringing immense media attention to the case from the world of entertainment as well.
For now, the path is clear for Stefon Diggs. His immediate future is defined by cleats, playbooks, and playoff pressure, not courtrooms. The legal cloud will loom again on February 13, but until then, his mission is twofold: help the Patriots chase Super Bowl glory and prepare to clear his name through the judicial process.
