SANTA CLARA, Calif. – Stefon Diggs is hopeful that his time with the Patriots won’t end with the team’s loss in Super Bowl 60.
Outside of Sunday’s result, this past season was a success for the 32-year-old former Pro Bowler. The veteran gave the Patriots their first 1,000-yard receiver since 2019. Diggs’ performance was impressive considering he was coming off a season-ending knee injury.
Whether or not the Patriots want him back, however, remains to be seen. Diggs is signed for two more years, but his base salary of $20.6 million isn’t fully guaranteed.
After the loss to Seattle, Diggs was asked if he expected to be back in New England next season.
“Oh (expletive). Unless they opt out of the contract,” Diggs said. “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.”
Last offseason, the Patriots signed Diggs to a 3-year, $69 million contract. That deal included $22.6 million in total guarantees.
If the team wanted to, they could get out of Diggs’ deal without major financial repercussions. Next year, Diggs has a $26.5 million cap hit. If the Patriots were to cut him before June 1, they would save $16.8 million off the cap while paying $9.7 million in dead money. In 2027, his cap number remains the same. That year, they would save $22.5 million by releasing Diggs while paying $4 million in dead money.
Diggs was the Patriots’ best offensive weapon this past season. He led the team in receptions (85) and receiving yards (1,013).
On Sunday, Diggs finished with three catches for 37 yards. After the game, the receiver said that he had fun in New England.
“Had a hell of a time in Minnesota, had a hell of a time in Buffalo, had hell of a time in Houston,” Diggs said. “I don’t compare and contrast. You know, comparison is the thief of joy. I had a good time at all those places. Did it work out? No. But I’m happy where I’m at right now and embrace what I got going on here, so I’m just super thankful.”
