Say this for the Patriots and the Stefon Diggs experience: It has delivered on entertainment value. That’s been a constant in Diggs’ time in the NFL, going back to his colorful days posting cryptic messages on Twitter and complaining about not getting the ball enough while in Minnesota, on to some of his on- and off-field shenanigans in Buffalo, and Diggs is a self-admitted “diva” receiver.
But, as he told Dianna Russini of The Athletic, “If they call me diva because I wanted the ball, I’m literally willing to take that.”
Now, we’ve seen Diggs’ odd interactions with the media this summer in training camp, as well as his memorable Memorial Day boat video back in May. But here’s the thing: All of that will be worth it if Diggs can simply be the No. 1-caliber wide receiver New England has been hoping to put on the field for quarterback Drake Maye.
Drake Maye: ‘Awesome’ to Bond With Stefon Diggs
Indeed, Maye has little connection to Diggs’ past in the game–he was in middle school when Diggs was drafted, after all. What Maye needs from Diggs is a smart veteran who can rack up catches and yardage the way he did before he suffered a torn ACL last season. Diggs had six straight 1,000-yard seasons before that.
Maye is looking forward to it.
“It’s been awesome to bond with such a high-level player,” he said. “I think it’s going to continue to show as the game week and game day come closer and closer is kind of how much he’s elevating his game and elevating his practice style. So, I’m looking forward to getting out there with him on Sunday. I think you’ll see good energy from Stef, and I’m looking forward to getting him the rock and letting him do his thing.”
Patriots Also Added Mack Hollins
The quality of veterans in the receivers’ room this season will be an obvious change for Maye in 2025. Where last year’s crew was mostly made up of guys who either did not belong in the NFL or were No. 3 options, this year’s has Diggs and veteran Mack Hollins on board.
Hollins does not have huge stats to his credit–seven seasons, 2,069 yards and 162 catches–but he is known for his veteran acumen, his clutch-play ability and his willingness to push everyone in practices. Maye said he appreciates that, too.
“He brings it every day,” Maye said. “There are no off days, and he’s working extra. He’s drawing up plays, asking me to come to extra walkthroughs and doing things that show up on Sundays and show up in practice. So, I think from that, what else would you expect from a Tar Heel? So, he’s just brought a great energy to the room. A veteran, does all the right things, blocks in the run game, and I think he’s going to be rewarded with being in there and making plays.”
Patriots’ Drake Maye Opens Up on Stefon Diggs Before Week 1