The New England Patriots tried to get weapons for Drake Maye this offseason. However, despite signing him to a three-year deal, Stefon Diggs’ time in New England could be short.
The Patriots signed Diggs and added Kyle Williams through the draft this year. However, in Bleacher Report’s early 2026 mock draft, Brent Sobleski predicted the Patriots would select Clemson University wide receiver Antonio Williams in the first round, and could move on from Diggs.
“New England used it’s league-high salary-cap space to bring in quality players on both sides of the ball, including wide receiver Stefon Diggs,” wrote Sobleski. “The team also drafted another talented in Kyle Williams with this year’s 69th overall pick. Maye could use even more quality options, especially since Diggs could easily be a salary-cap casualty next offseason.”
Diggs signed a three-year, $63 million deal this offseason, but has a $26 million cap hit in the second and third years of his deal. The Patriots could easily move on from him after one season and let two young receivers lead their offense.
“Clemson’s Antonio Williams can flat out run and displays the suddenness to easily shake defensive backs at the top of his route stem,” wrote Sobleski. “After dealing with multiple injuries during the 2023 campaign, Williams posted career-highs this past season, with 75 receptions for 904 yards and 11 touchdowns. While the first-team All-ACC performer may not be a big target at a listed 5’11” and 190 pounds, he can tilt the field in his offense’s favor.”
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Diggs is a four-time Pro Bowler and an All-Pro. However, he is 31 years old and coming off a season-ending knee injury. His best football could be behind him, and the Patriots could look to surround their young quarterback with a young core that can stick together for years to come.
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