Stefon Diggs’ future with the Patriots now faces a deadline they can’t ignore.

Stefon Diggs’ Future With the Patriots Now Faces a Deadline They Can’t Ignore

 

February 16, 2026 (Sports News) — The future of wide receiver Stefon Diggs with the New England Patriots is suddenly one of the NFL’s most compelling offseason storylines, as the club confronts a looming deadline to make a key decision on the veteran playmaker’s contract.

 

Diggs, who joined the Patriots last year on a three‑year deal worth up to $69 million, was a major catalyst in New England’s return to the Super Bowl in the 2025 season. Despite finishing with over 1,000 receiving yards, the 32‑year‑old now finds himself at the center of a high‑stakes evaluation that could determine whether he remains a Patriot or heads elsewhere in 2026.

 

Cap Crunch and Contract Questions

At the heart of the dilemma is Diggs’ substantial salary cap hit — reportedly $26.5 million for the 2026 season. With the Patriots facing significant cap constraints, NFL analysts believe New England could explore trimming that figure by restructuring his contract or even releasing him before a mid‑March deadline that would maximize potential savings.

 

If the Patriots cut ties before June 1, they could save over $16 million against the cap, though they would still absorb roughly $9.7 million in dead money. That financial calculus, sources say, means team officials must weigh Diggs’ production against the roster flexibility his contract occupies.

 

Veteran NFL insider Marc Bertrand recently suggested the Patriots and Diggs could ultimately “head for a breakup” if neither side is willing to compromise — particularly if the team asks Diggs to take a pay cut and he pushes back.

 

Diggs Wishes to Stay, But Decision Isn’t His

Despite the uncertainty, Diggs himself has expressed a desire to remain in New England. After the Patriots’ Super Bowl loss, the wideout made it clear he hopes to be part of the team’s future, saying publicly that he anticipates being back “unless they opt out of the contract.” Diggs emphasized his bond with teammates and his enjoyment of his first season in Foxborough but acknowledged the ultimate choice doesn’t rest solely with him.

 

Off‑Field Complications Add Pressure

Complicating matters off the field, Diggs is currently dealing with legal issues after recently pleading not guilty to charges of assault and strangulation related to an incident involving his former private chef. The arraignment, which took place shortly after Super Bowl LX, has drawn attention as both Diggs and the team navigate public scrutiny while preparing for the upcoming offseason. The Patriots have publicly stated their support for Diggs as the case proceeds.

 

What’s Next for New England

For Patriots general manager Eliot Wolf and head coach Mike Vrabel, the next few weeks will be critical. They must balance Diggs’ on‑field value, his leadership role, and his substantial contract against broader roster construction goals, including supporting second‑year quarterback Drake Maye. The March deadline looms large: it’s a decision point that could reshape the Patriots’ offensive identity entering the 2026 campaign.

 

Whether Diggs remains in New England or departs, one thing is clear — his future with the Patriots now comes with a deadline they cannot ignore.