After New England's monumental signing of four-time Pro Bowler Stefon Diggs, there were plenty of prominent reactions across the local and national media landscape. The pundits have posited their thoughts on the move, with some expressing age and injury concerns and others calling it an overpay. Yet there were two reactions in particular that the Foxboro faithful will hold in higher regard than the others.
One of them provided insight into what some of Diggs' new teammates may be thinking about the move. An anonymous New England veteran told Andrew Callahan, “I think (he) helps the team big time, so I love it.”
#Patriots veteran on Diggs: “I think (he) helps the team big time, so I love it.” https://t.co/u7utnfWoNl
— Andrew Callahan (@_AndrewCallahan) March 26, 2025
This is relevant for several reasons. One of the biggest problems with the team last season was the outright lack of direction from above. It was evident from early on that the players were not on board with the direction the team was headed. Now that a veteran and presumably a clubhouse leader has spoken out in support of a front-office move, it sets a new tone and allows for the players to buy into a new culture. Additionally, the increased veteran presence is much needed on this young team.
There was a less anonymous quote that may spark even more interest from Patriots fans. Before his last season was cut short due to injuries, Diggs had accumulated six consecutive seasons of 1,000 or more yards. The last Patriot to have a thousand-yard season was Julian Edelman back in 2020, who had this to say about the move:
"I like Stefon Diggs in New England, that situation, because Stefon Diggs is still pissed off at the Bills."Julian Edelman
Jules clearly enjoys pouring fuel on an old rivalry from his playing days, but his comments hold credence. Buffalo had taken control of the rivalry over the last five years and New England could use a spark plug to rekindle their fight against their division foes.
Patriots fans and pundits alike have shared their gut reactions about Diggs and have reasons to be excited as well as reasons to be concerned. However, hearing endorsements from current and past Patriots royalty will only brew more excitement in Foxboro ahead of coach Mike Vrabel's first season.