Stefon Diggs to the New England Patriots was not a foregone conclusion.
According to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, the four-time Pro Bowler ultimately chose the Patriots over the Denver Broncos in free agency, turning a two-team race into a huge early-season win for New England.
The Stefon Diggs Patriots pairing has transformed their passing game, while Denver is left wondering what its offense might have looked like with a true No. 1 receiver on the outside.
Stefon Diggs Patriots contract vs Broncos’ cautious approach
Rapoport reported that Diggs’ free agency decision came down to the New England Patriots and the Denver Broncos, with both teams monitoring his recovery from a 2024 ACL tear.
The Patriots went all in, offering a three-year, 63.5 million dollar contract with 16.6 million fully guaranteed and additional injury guarantees that showed serious faith in his health.
Denver, meanwhile, was interested in Diggs on a cheaper deal and ultimately balked at the price, especially after already committing big money to Courtland Sutton. Instead of adding Diggs, the Broncos spread resources elsewhere, including signings like safety Talanoa Hufanga, which has worked out well for them so far.
#Broncos were in on Stefon Diggs this offseason 👀 https://t.co/njw745fpVb
— Ryan Edwards (@redwardsradio) November 14, 2025
Diggs has quickly become the favorite target for rookie quarterback Drake Maye, leading the Patriots in receptions and receiving yards while stacking 100 yard games and looking like a Comeback Player of the Year candidate.
Broncos left searching while Diggs thrives in New England
For the Denver Broncos, missing out on Diggs is starting to sting. Their passing game has leaned heavily on Courtland Sutton and a wave of young receivers like Troy Franklin and Marvin Mims, but defenses have begun bracketing Sutton and forcing others to win consistently.
The Broncos are currently in the 17th in the league in passing yards per game (206.0), behind teams like the New York Giants, Atlanta Falcons, and the Houston Texans.
The production has not always matched the volume, and the offense still lacks the kind of technician who can beat every coverage look the way Diggs does with his route running and hands.
I did not understand why so many people were so down on Stefon Diggs this offseason. Yes, he was coming off the injury, but he was good in Houston when healthy!
— Mike Kennedy (@MikeKennedyNFL) November 9, 2025
The perfect WR for a young QB. Game ages super well.
Top 10 in yards per route run this year.pic.twitter.com/r338CxU4A8
Photo Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images
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