The New England Patriots have released wide receiver Stefon Diggs, ending a tenure that lasted just one season. The move, reported by multiple outlets including CBS and The New York Post, comes amidst a backdrop of legal issues and a recent, highly publicized split from rapper Cardi B. The decision marks a significant shift for the Patriots as they head into the new NFL championship year and raises questions about the future for the 32-year-old receiver.
Diggs signed a three-year, $63.5 million contract with New England last offseason, but his time with the team was marked by inconsistency and, more recently, legal challenges. The release will be official on March 11th, according to reports. This development adds another layer of complexity to what has been a turbulent period for the veteran wideout.
Relationship with Cardi B and Super Bowl Fallout
The news of Diggs’ release follows a separation from Cardi B, confirmed shortly before the Super Bowl in February. The pair welcomed a son in November, but rumors of a rift began circulating as the Super Bowl approached. When asked by an ESPN reporter for words of encouragement for Diggs before the Super Bowl, Cardi B offered a terse “Good luck” before walking away. Following the Patriots’ loss, the couple unfollowed each other on social media, and Cardi B publicly confirmed their separation during a concert in Los Angeles.
Diggs and Cardi B had made their relationship public in May of the previous year, with the rapper announcing her pregnancy in September – her fourth child, and the first with Diggs. Diggs is also the father of five other children with five different women. The highly publicized relationship and subsequent breakup have undoubtedly added to the scrutiny surrounding Diggs’ situation.
Legal Issues Add to Uncertainty
Adding to the off-field distractions, Diggs pleaded not guilty in February to charges of assault and strangulation related to an incident involving his personal chef at the end of 2025. Details of the alleged incident have been widely reported, and the legal proceedings are ongoing. The timing of the release, coupled with the pending legal case, raises questions about the Patriots’ decision-making process.
Diggs’ NFL Career to Date
Stefon Marsean Diggs, born November 29, 1993, has had a notable NFL career prior to his time in New England. He was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the fifth round of the 2015 NFL draft after playing college football at the University of Maryland. Diggs quickly established himself as a key player for the Vikings, forming a productive receiving duo with Adam Thielen. He famously caught the “Minneapolis Miracle” pass during the 2017-18 NFL playoffs, a pivotal moment in Vikings history.
Following his time in Minnesota, Diggs was traded to the Buffalo Bills in 2020, where he reached new heights. He led the NFL in receptions and receiving yards in 2020, earning First-team All-Pro honors. He continued to be a Pro Bowl selection through 2023, and earned Second-team All-Pro honors in 2022. He then spent a single season with the Houston Texans in 2024 before joining the Patriots.
As of 2025, Diggs has amassed 942 receptions for 11,504 receiving yards and 74 touchdowns throughout his NFL career, according to Pro Football Reference. His consistent production and playmaking ability have made him one of the league’s most respected wide receivers.
What’s Next for Stefon Diggs?
The immediate future for Diggs remains uncertain. Speculation is already rampant regarding his next destination, with several teams potentially vying for his services. His skillset and experience would be a valuable asset to any team in need of a reliable receiving threat. The upcoming free agency period will likely be crucial in determining where Diggs lands.
The Patriots, meanwhile, will need to address the void left by Diggs’ departure. They will likely explore options in the draft and free agency to bolster their receiving corps. The team’s success in the upcoming season will depend, in part, on their ability to find a suitable replacement for the veteran wide receiver.
The situation surrounding Stefon Diggs is complex, involving both on-field performance and off-field challenges. As he navigates these issues, the football world will be watching to notice what the next chapter holds for the talented wide receiver.
The next confirmed checkpoint for Diggs will be his availability on the free agent market, beginning March 13th. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring developments as teams assess their needs and potential fits.
