Former New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs was released earlier this offseason but remains a free agent, fueling hopes among Patriots fans for a return.
Diggs was acquitted of felony strangulation and misdemeanor assault and battery on May 5, and the legal issues likely contributed to his continued free agency. At this stage of the offseason, he may not secure a big-money contract and might have to accept a short-term deal. On May 6, he posted a highlight reel on Instagram with a caption highlighting his stats and value.
Many Patriots fans flooded the comments, urging him to come back to New England, and some of his former teammates also chimed in. Now, Kyle Williams, who was initially reported to be switching his jersey number to No. 8—worn by Diggs last season—has decided to stick with No. 18, according to ESPN’s Mike Reiss.
Fans online interpret Williams’ decision to keep No. 18 as a hint that Diggs is returning. It is indeed unusual for Williams to back out of a planned number change, though financial considerations related to jersey sales might have played a role.
Earlier this offseason, Patriots executive Eliot Wolf left the door open for a Diggs reunion. “I never like to rule anything out… Don’t want to close the door on anything,” Wolf said in March. Diggs was set to carry a cap hit of over $25 million next season, but if he’s willing to sign for less, he could be a valuable addition.
If Diggs does come back, his role would be different. New England signed Romeo Doubs and is expected to acquire A.J. Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles soon. After leading the team in receiving last season, Diggs could end up as the No. 3 wide receiver. However, having Brown, Doubs, and Diggs as the top three receivers would put the Patriots in an excellent position—potentially the best trio in the league.
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