Even after they officially traded for A.J. Brown, it might still be a good idea for the New England Patriots to reunite with Stefon Diggs and bring him back to the fold, as long as the money is right.
New England waived Diggs after one season, but it was more likely for financial reasons (he had a $26.5 million cap hit for the 2026 season had he stayed) than performance-related reasons (85 receptions, 1,013 yards, four touchdowns).
The Maryland native was a fantastic go-to guy for Drake Maye last season, and he played a big role in the young quarterback's development. While he's probably not a true No. 1 option anymore (only 14 receptions, 110 yards, and one touchdown in the playoffs, for example), Diggs still has a lot of good football left in him. And even after adding Brown to the mix this offseason, the Patriots should look into bringing him back.
Stefon Diggs can complement A.J. Brown's game, and vice-versa
It might not be 2021 anymore, but a Brown-Diggs pairing could be game-changing for the Patriots.
Brown's biggest appeal to New England is his presence as a vertical threat, which should be huge for Maye, one of the best deep ball throwers in the game. Having someone like him can open up the short and intermediate game for the Patriots, which would pay huge dividends for the team and the rest of the receiving corps (and even the running game), and that's exactly where bringing Diggs back could make sense.
The Patriots already have a solid receiving corps beyond their new star with players like Romeo Doubs, Kayshon Boutte (assuming he stays), and DeMario Douglas. But Diggs is better suited to make an immediate impact on the field (especially because of his chemistry with Maye) due to his talent and veteran presence.
It's also fair to think Diggs would be even better for the Patriots next season, given that he didn't have someone like Brown opening up the rest of the field for him against weaker cornerbacks last year.
The 32-year-old might not be a deep threat (especially at this point in his career), but he knows how to get open, is reliable, and already has that chemistry with Maye and the rest of New England's offense. And with the recent changes the team has made to its roster, there are reasons to believe that he would be even better if given the opportunity.
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