What Was Stefon Diggs Holding on That Boat? Patriots Just Made Their Decision

Aug 17, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Stefon Diggs (1) before the game against the New York Giants at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

The New England Patriots have made their call on Stefon Diggs, and it’s a big one. After the viral boat video that showed Diggs handing a woman a bag with an unidentified pink substance, there was speculation about his future with the team. Head coach Mike Vrabel kept it internal, saying any conversations would stay between him, Diggs, and the organization. But on Monday, NFL insider Ian Rapoport dropped the news: the Patriots are not cutting Diggs. “My understanding is the team does not plan to cut Stefon Diggs. He is a very good player….They intend to pay him a lot of money, especially after he passed his physical,” Rapoport said. It’s a decision that keeps Diggs in Foxborough, despite the distraction, and it’s a vote of confidence in a player they’re banking on to elevate their offense.

Diggs joined the Patriots earlier this year after a one-year stint with the Houston Texans, where he struggled before a season-ending torn ACL. But he’s made strides in his recovery, passing his physical and positioning himself to be ready for the 2025 season. Before the injury, Diggs was on pace for another 1,000-yard season, with 47 catches for 496 yards and three touchdowns in eight games. It’s a reminder of his potential, and for the Patriots, who signed him to a three-year, $69 million deal, it’s a bet they’re still willing to make. The boat incident was a hiccup, but the team’s decided it’s not enough to derail their plans.

Now, the focus shifts to the future. Diggs showed up to OTAs for the first time this summer, a sign that he’s ready to move forward and build chemistry with quarterback Drake Maye. It’s a pairing that’s got fans optimistic, especially after Maye’s promising rookie season. For Diggs, it’s about proving he’s worth the investment, both on and off the field. The Patriots are all in, and with Diggs’ track record—six straight 1,000-yard seasons before the injury—they’re hoping he can recapture that form. The season kicks off against the Denver Broncos on September 7, and for Diggs, it’s a chance to silence the doubters and show why the Patriots made the right call. Stay tuned, because this story’s got legs, and Diggs is ready to run with it.