So, Kyle Williams, who wore the No. 18 in his rookie season with the New England Patriots last season, was reportedly expected to change his jersey number to No. 8, which Stefon Diggs (who is now a free agent) wore during his lone season with the team. But now that's not happening?
It could be completely unrelated, but it's telling that Williams is opting not to take Diggs' old jersey number, particularly following the speculation that the Maryland native might make his way back to the Patriots' organization after all.
Stefon Diggs may be primed for a Patriots reunion
Even after New England waived him, there was immediate discourse surrounding Diggs possibly coming back. From what we know, the Patriots just moved on from him for financial reasons, and the team's executive vice president of player personnel, Eliot Wolf, didn't rule out the possibility of bringing him back anyway.
Diggs played a big role in New England last season, both on and off the field (85 receptions, 1,013 yards, four touchdowns in all 17 games, was a big-time security blanket for Drake Maye; took on a mentorship role for the offense, particularly the receiving corps). Bringing him back, especially if on a team-friendly deal, should be a no-brainer for both sides. And that's even factoring in the addition of Romeo Doubs and the (likely) trade for A.J. Brown.
Stefon Diggs can still contribute for the Patriots at a high level
The one-time All-Pro receiver may not be what he was even three or four years ago, but it's clear that he still has a lot left in the tank. He tore his ACL less than a year before suiting up for the Patriots, yet he made a huge impact on the field and was instrumental to both Maye's second NFL season and the team's surprising Super Bowl run.
Plus, finding a go-to, reliable No. 1 weapon for a young quarterback should always be a top priority for teams around the league, and that's no different here. The Patriots should surround Maye with as much talent as possible, and given how much Diggs being around benefited him last year, it would be wise to circle back to what has already worked.
All I'm saying is Diggs seemingly liked being in New England, and that feeling is mutual (with fans and his teammates). And with the receiving corps still being a bit of a question mark for the team, don't be surprised if he makes his way back at some point before the start of next season.
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