The New England Patriots were aggressive in their approach to the offseason as it became clear rather quickly that upgrading the talent at the skill positions on the offensive side of the ball was a priority.
One area, in particular, that has seemingly gone from a weakness to a potential position of strength is wide receiver. The additions made through free agency and via the draft have set up Drake Maye nicely to make a big jump in his second year with the Patriots.
With training camp set to open on July 23, New England received more good news this week regarding one of the biggest offseason acquisitions.
The #Patriots did not place WR Stefon Diggs on the PUP list ahead of training camp.
— Carlos A. Lopez (@LosTalksPats) July 19, 2025
A remarkable recovery from a torn ACL. pic.twitter.com/WrxSgqlWH0
Patriots Catch Massive Break with Stefon Diggs' Health Entering Camp
After suffering a torn ACL during October 2024 while a member of the Houston Texans, veteran wide receiver Stefon Diggs was not among the players added to the Physically Unable to Participate list ahead of training camp. Given the timing of Diggs' injury, this is a major win in and of itself for New England.
NE took a bit of a risk by signing the 31-year-old to a three-year, $63.5 million deal, given he was coming off this injury. He's also already dealt with off-field issues since joining the team, prompting questions on if the team would regret this addition.
However, the risk seems to be much less of a concern now knowing he is this far along in his recovery. And he quickly handled his offseason drama as a professional, so he's shown some growth already into his tenure.
Diggs reeled in 47 catches for 496 yards and four total touchdowns in eight games before suffering the knee injury that prematurely ended his 2024 campaign in Houston. In the four seasons before that, the former University of Maryland star caught at least 100 passes, including a career-best 127 receptions in 2020.
Given New England's need for a true No. 1 receiver, Diggs should have no issues approaching that 100-reception mark again this season with a quarterback like Maye directing traffic on offense.
With a much healthier Diggs than most would have expected at this stage of the summer, third-round pick Kyle Williams, and veteran Mack Hollins joining the wide receiver room, the Patriots are in a great spot on the offensive side of the football as we move closer to the start of the 2025 campaign.