In a heartfelt revelation, professional football star Trevon Diggs has shared the profound role his older brother, Stefon Diggs, has played in his life, stepping in as a father figure after their father's untimely death. The emotional bond between the two NFL athletes sheds light on a story of resilience, guidance, and brotherly love that transcends the football field.
A Brother's Shoulder: Stefon's Role After Family Tragedy
The foundation of this unique relationship was forged in adversity. Their father, Aron Diggs, passed away in 2008 at the age of 39 due to congestive heart failure. At the time, Trevon was just 10 years old, and Stefon, nearly five years older, was only 14. This devastating loss thrust Stefon into a position of responsibility far beyond his years.
"[Stefon] is like my dad, honestly," Trevon Diggs confessed in an interview with ESPN's Turron Davenport back in April 2020. He explained that his brother was always there for him after their father's passing, taking care of him and offering unwavering support. "I always ask him everything, no matter what. Two o'clock in the morning, I'm asking him questions," Trevon said, highlighting the constant nature of their connection.
Their mother, Stephanie, acknowledged the weight Stefon carried. She revealed that despite having his pick of colleges across the country, Stefon chose to stay close to home in Maryland to support his family, which included his mother, sister Porsche Green, and brothers Trevon and Mar'Sean. "I sat Stefon down in high school and told him he had to make good decisions and set a good example because your brother looks up to you," Stephanie recalled.
From Protector to Mentor: Forging Separate Legacies
Stefon's protective role began early. While attending Our Lady of Good Counsel High School in Olney, Maryland, he would watch over Trevon. This guardianship gave the younger Diggs a sense of security. "People didn't want to mess with me because I would tell them I'd call my brother," Trevon admitted with a laugh.
As both brothers pursued football careers, Trevon consciously made a pivotal decision to carve his own path and step out of his brother's considerable shadow. While Stefon "tore it up" at the University of Maryland, Trevon opted for a different route. He chose the University of Alabama over Maryland to build his own legacy. "Why would I go somewhere where a bar is already set?" Trevon reasoned. "I'd always be in comparison to everything that he did. I was even playing receiver at the time. I wasn't trying to be under his shadow."
He described Alabama as the best school for him, drawn by the elite program and the chance to win championships. However, even from a distance, Stefon's guidance remained crucial. When Trevon needed advice, especially during the stressful 2020 NFL Draft process, Stefon was his first call. The elder Diggs would often advise him to "do what's best for your life."
A Bond That Built an NFL Interception Leader
The influence of this brotherly bond is evident to those who know them. Terrell Lewis, Trevon's teammate at Alabama, pointed out Stefon's significant impact. "His brother plays a big role. If there's anybody he's going to consult with, it's his brother," Lewis observed. "You can tell he gets all of his insight and advice from his big brother. That's a blessing to have someone in your corner like that."
This support system undoubtedly contributed to Trevon's meteoric rise. The cornerback, who once played wide receiver like his brother, honed his skills to become a defensive standout. His dedication paid off when he led the NFL in interceptions in 2021, establishing himself as one of the league's premier defensive backs during his time with the Dallas Cowboys.
The story of Trevon and Stefon Diggs is more than a sports narrative; it's a testament to family, sacrifice, and the enduring power of a brother's love. From the painful loss of their father to the bright lights of the NFL, Stefon's role as a guide and protector helped shape Trevon not just as a player, but as a man, proving that the strongest teams are sometimes built off the field.
