Is Stefon Diggs being ignored in NFL free agency after New England Patriots release despite another 1000 yard season?

Four days into the 2026 NFL free agency period, one big name is still waiting for a new team. Veteran wide receiver Stefon Diggs remains unsigned even though he is one of the most proven players available on the market. Diggs was released by the New England Patriots shortly before free agency started, and many fans expected him to quickly find another team. However, that has not happened yet. Diggs is now 32 years old and entering his 12th NFL season, which could be one reason teams are moving slowly.

At the same time, reports about off-field issues late last year may also be making some franchises cautious. Still, many analysts believe the former All-Pro wide receiver can help an offense right away if the right opportunity appears. Diggs has built a long career as one of the league’s most dependable pass catchers. Across 11 seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, Buffalo Bills, and most recently the Patriots, he has produced 942 receptions, 11,504 receiving yards, and 75 touchdown catches. He has also made four Pro Bowls and earned two All-Pro selections during his career.

Stefon Diggs remains unsigned after New England Patriots release as teams weigh talent, age and off field concerns

Even though Stefon Diggs still produces strong numbers, several factors may explain why he has not signed with a team yet.

First, his age could be part of the situation. At 32, Diggs is no longer in the early years of his career. Teams often look for younger wide receivers during free agency, especially when they plan long-term contracts. Still, Diggs showed last season that he can contribute at a high level.

According to PFSN’s NFL WR Impact Metrics, Diggs recorded an 87.0 WR Impact Score, which ranked fourth among all wide receivers in the 2025 season. That shows he remained one of the league’s most effective pass catchers despite his age.

Another issue teams may be considering involves off-field matters reported late last year. Several insiders said Diggs faced criminal charges connected to an earlier incident in December. While details remain unclear, that situation may be making some organizations cautious about signing him right away.

Despite the uncertainty, analysts still believe Diggs will receive interest from teams needing help at wide receiver. In a recent article for PFSN, analyst Alex Kennedy explained why the veteran receiver could still land a deal soon.

Kennedy wrote, “A late addition to the free agency party, Stefon Diggs got released by the New England Patriots a week before signings can kick off. There’s reason to understand why the Patriots parted ways with him, with a lot of them coming off the field.” He also pointed out that Diggs’ on-field production remains strong.

Kennedy added, “On the field, though, Diggs is still playing at an extremely high level. He finished fourth in the NFL in PFSN’s WR Impact Metric, and coming off a torn ACL in 2024, still ended the 2025 season with over 1,000 receiving yards. Teams in need of help in the passing game will still give Diggs a shot because of his overwhelming talent.”

Kennedy suggested a few possible landing spots as well. According to his analysis, the Tennessee Titans, Washington Commanders, and San Francisco 49ers could all be logical fits depending on their roster needs.

He also projected that Diggs might receive a three-year contract worth about $14.5 million if a team decides to sign him. For now, Diggs remains one of the most experienced wide receivers still available in free agency.






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