Stefon Diggs: A Career Retrospective and Patriots’ Playoff Catalyst
18 January 2026 – Stefon Diggs, the All-Pro wide receiver, has become a cornerstone of the New England Patriots’ resurgence. Now in his second season with the franchise, the 32-year-old veteran is a key reason the Patriots are hosting a Divisional Round playoff game this weekend. His journey from a fifth-round pick to a four-time Pro Bowler is one of the NFL’s most compelling stories.
From Fifth-Round Pick to Patriots’ Leader
Born on 29 November 1993 in Gaithersburg, Maryland, Diggs was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the fifth round (146th overall) of the 2015 NFL Draft. He quickly established himself as a starter, forming a prolific tandem with Adam Thielen. His career-defining moment came in the 2017 NFC Divisional Round, where his 61-yard touchdown catch as time expired—the “Minneapolis Miracle”—propelled the Vikings to the NFC Championship.
After five seasons in Minnesota, Diggs was traded to the Buffalo Bills in March 2020. His arrival in Buffalo coincided with the emergence of quarterback Josh Allen, and together they formed one of the league’s most dynamic quarterback-receiver duos. Diggs led the NFL in receptions (127) and receiving yards (1,535) in his first season with the Bills, earning First-Team All-Pro honours and helping Buffalo reach the AFC Championship.
Following a 2024 season with the Houston Texans cut short by a torn ACL, Diggs signed a three-year deal with the Patriots in the 2025 offseason. His leadership and production have been instrumental in New England’s return to the postseason.
Career Statistics and Key Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Stefon Marsean Diggs |
| Current Team | New England Patriots (2025–present) |
| Position | Wide Receiver |
| Height / Weight | 6-0 / 191 lbs (86.6 kg) |
| NFL Experience | 11 seasons (2015–present) |
| College | University of Maryland |
| Draft | 2015: 5th round, 146th overall (Minnesota Vikings) |
| Pro Bowls | 4 (2020, 2021, 2022, 2023) |
| All-Pro Selections | 1 (First-Team, 2020) |
| Career Receptions | 1,178 |
| Career Receiving Yards | 9,995 |
| Career Receiving Touchdowns | 67 |
| 2025 Season (Patriots) | 85 receptions, 1,013 yards, 4 TDs |
The Trade Saga: Buffalo to Houston
The turning point in Diggs’ career came in April 2024, when the Buffalo Bills traded their star wideout to the Houston Texans. The blockbuster deal sent Diggs, a 2024 sixth-round pick, and a 2025 fifth-rounder to Houston in exchange for a 2025 second-round pick (via Minnesota).
The trade ended a four-year partnership in Buffalo that saw Diggs earn four consecutive Pro Bowl selections and set numerous franchise and league records. However, it also followed a period of reported tension and a decline in production during the latter half of the 2023 season.
Diggs’ arrival in Houston was meant to pair him with Offensive Rookie of the Year C.J. Stroud, but a torn ACL in Week 8 of the 2024 season ended his Texans tenure after just eight games. He finished his lone season in Houston with 47 receptions for 496 yards and three touchdowns.
Why Did the Bills Trade Diggs?
The decision to trade Diggs was multifaceted. Reports from ESPN detailed a growing philosophical divide between Diggs and the Bills’ coaching staff, particularly regarding the team’s offensive direction under coordinator Joe Brady. Diggs’ targets and production dipped significantly after Brady’s promotion in 2023.
Financially, the Bills absorbed a record dead salary cap charge of $31.096 million to move Diggs, but general manager Brandon Beane stated the move was necessary to “get the contract off our books” and provide long-term flexibility.
For Diggs, the trade offered a “breath of fresh air,” as he described it upon joining the Texans. He sought a new environment where he felt “loved” and could “thrive.” The Texans, in turn, voided the final three years of his contract, making him a free agent after the 2024 season.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many teams has Stefon Diggs played for?
Stefon Diggs has played for three NFL teams: the Minnesota Vikings (2015–2019), the Buffalo Bills (2020–2023), and the New England Patriots (2025–present). He also spent the 2024 season with the Houston Texans.
What is Stefon Diggs’ career receiving yardage?
As of the end of the 2025 regular season, Stefon Diggs has amassed 9,995 career receiving yards. He is just five yards shy of reaching the 10,000-yard career milestone.
What is Stefon Diggs’ current contract status?
Diggs signed a three-year contract with the New England Patriots in the 2025 offseason. The financial terms of the deal have not been publicly disclosed.
How did Diggs perform in his first season with the Patriots?
In his debut season with New England, Diggs led the team in receptions (85) and receiving yards (1,013), while also scoring four touchdowns. He was a key contributor to the Patriots’ AFC East-winning campaign.