Stefon Diggs Faces Uncertain Patriots Future After Super Bowl Defeat
Stefon Diggs departed Santa Clara with a Super Bowl loss and a recurring question overshadowing his performance. The veteran wide receiver finally provided the New England Patriots with a true number-one season, yet the business aspects are already intensifying scrutiny on his future with the team.
Contract and Cap Concerns Emerge Post-Super Bowl
The 32-year-old wide receiver is secured under a three-year, $69 million contract extending through 2027. However, the primary issue revolves around how that agreement impacts the 2026 salary cap. A growing consensus among Boston media suggests this partnership may face rapid testing.
On the field, Diggs fulfilled expectations after joining the Patriots in Foxborough. He participated in all 17 games during the 2025 season, recording 85 receptions for 1,013 yards and four touchdowns. This achievement made him the first Patriots receiver to surpass 1,000 yards since Julian Edelman in 2019, significantly contributing to the offense's return to Super Bowl 60.
The critical question is whether the front office is willing to compensate for that production at the current price point. Diggs carries a substantial $26.5 million cap hit for the 2026 season. The Patriots possess a potential out before June 1, which could save approximately $16.9 million while leaving $9.7 million in dead money on their financial records.
Media Predicts Imminent Breakup Amid Financial Debates
Marc Bertrand of NBC Sports Boston anticipates a turbulent offseason. "I think they're headed for a breakup. It's what I think they are," Bertrand stated. "I think it's human nature for him to sit there and say, 'As long as they don't ask out of the contract.' Well, they may not ask him out the contract and say, 'Hey, why don't you take a pay cut like so many veterans in the NFL have been asked to do before?'"
"And he's gonna say, 'Why do I need to take a pay cut? I just gave you a 1,000-yard season, and I was just your best, most reliable receiver, and I was a leader on the team. Explain to me why am I taking a pay cut?'"
From the team's perspective, this encapsulates the entire debate. Should they continue paying near top-market rates to a 32-year-old receiver while constructing the next offensive iteration around Drake Maye, or should they remove the bandage immediately and reset the position?
March 13 Deadline Adds Pressure to Diggs' Situation
The calendar now holds as much significance as statistical performance. On the Next Pats Podcast, Phil Perry of NBC Sports Boston highlighted why March 13 serves as the crucial pressure point. "He has $1.7 million guaranteed on his deal for 2026. It's not a huge number, but if you get to the regular season, that $20.6 million base salary becomes guaranteed, and actually $6 million of that will be guaranteed on March 13th.
That's the key date. If he gets $6 million on March 13th, he's going to be with this team. If he doesn't, you're going to be looking for wide receivers, whether it's in free agency or in the draft, to help fill the gap.
"Now, you could save almost $17 million on the cap. ... You would have $9.7 million in dead money if you end up parting with Stefon Diggs."
Adding complexity is Diggs' ongoing court case, meaning the front office must evaluate not only financial decisions but also risk assessments. If the legal situation resolves favorably, the argument to retain a proven number-one receiver for at least another year with Maye strengthens. Conversely, if complications persist, the inclination to terminate the contract may increase.
Diggs Expresses Desire to Remain with Patriots
Following the 29-13 loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl 60, Diggs clarified his stance. "Oh (expletive). Unless they opt out of the contract," Diggs remarked. "I anticipate being here, so I hope so. Love my guys. I had a hell of a year playing with them. Built some real family-like bond, so I hope so, I don’t control it though."
This statement underscores the core issue: Diggs wishes to stay, while Bertrand predicts an impending separation. Perry has identified March 13 as the pivotal moment when discussions transition into actionable decisions.
If New England allows the $6 million guarantee to activate, they are wagering that a 32-year-old Stefon Diggs remains the optimal choice for Drake Maye and the current offense. Should they avoid this guarantee, the speculated breakup ceases to be mere radio discourse and transforms into the inaugural defining decision of the Mike Vrabel era.
