Stefon Diggs Hits Free Agency Amid Teams’ Pursuit

HOUSTON, Texas (AP) — Stefon Diggs, a four-time Pro Bowl wide receiver, is poised to make his entry into free agency this offseason following a challenging year cut short by a torn ACL. After an impactful career with the Minnesota Vikings and Buffalo Bills, the 31-year-old once again finds himself at the center of attention as numerous teams prepare for possible negotiations.

During his brief stint with the Houston Texans in 2024, Diggs began the season strong but saw his performance compromised by injury, forcing him to finish the year early. Despite playing only eight games, he managed to maintain a 73% catch rate, establishing himself as a valuable asset when healthy. “Stefon Diggs was off to a solid start with the Texans. His raw totals were down from his Buffalo days,” observed Ben Rolfe, highlighting the unique position Diggs finds himself in as a free agent.

As NFL teams look to bolster their rosters for the upcoming 2025 season, several franchises are eyeing Diggs to enhance their wide receiver corps. The Dallas Cowboys, for example, temporarily found cap space and could benefit significantly by signing him, especially given that his brother, Trevon Diggs, already plays for the team. “Diggs might be the one worth opening the checkbook for, especially in this free agency class,” an analyst commented.

Meanwhile, the New England Patriots are also in the mix, seeking reinforcements as they aim to rebuild their offense around second-year quarterback Jaren Maye. With over $120 million in cap space, the Patriots could afford to pursue Diggs, viewing him as a potential mentor for their young receiving unit.

The Los Angeles Chargers, sitting with $84 million in cap space, are keen to recover from a disappointing playoff exit and see Diggs as a potent weapon to support quarterback Justin Herbert. “Stefon Diggs might be their best available option,” one scout noted, emphasizing the Chargers’ need for additional firepower.

Additionally, teams like the Jacksonville Jaguars and Las Vegas Raiders are actively looking for wide receiver talent to help compete in their respective divisions. The Jaguars, eager to ascend in the AFC South, and the Raiders, aiming to fast-track their playoff ambitions, both view Diggs as a key player to address their shortcomings.

With multiple suitors ready to make offers, the dynamics of this year’s free agent receiver market heavily favor Diggs. As he recovers from his ACL injury, speculation grows about the type of deal he might attract. “Given his age and injury, one-year contracts may be a common scenario” explained an NFL analyst, highlighting the pursuit strategy teams might adopt.

Through his prior successes, including averaging over 1,000 receiving yards in six consecutive seasons, Diggs’ reputation precedes him, even as he faces uncertainty in the wake of an injury. “While his health will affect the length and value of his next deal, his veteran presence could make him a key addition for a contender,” Rolfe added.

As teams finalize their strategies ahead of the free agency negotiation period, Diggs’ impact on the NFL landscape is likely to unfold rapidly. With expectations high and alternatives scarce, there is little doubt Stefon Diggs will remain a focal point of teams seeking to strengthen their roster moving forward.