Should Patroits Sign Stefon Diggs, Go All-In On Next Season? originally appeared on NESN.
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The New England Patriots made a major move to acquire A.J. Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday.
The Patriots gave up a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick. It is a major investment in a position they already invested in during free agency. The Patriots signed Romeo Doubs to a four-year, $68 million deal, worth up to $80 million, in free agency. Last season, the receiving corps did not have much going on behind Stefon Diggs.
Kayshon Boutte and Mack Hollins were solid players, but Brown and Doubs look to be an upgrade over what the Patriots had last season. Diggs was a 1,000-yard receiver last year, and he remains unsigned. Acquiring Brown is an all-in move, so should the Patriots also bring back Diggs to create an elite trio of wide receivers?
Well, the answer is more complicated than a simple yes or no. Right now, the Patriots’ number three wide receiver is likely going to be Kayshon Boutte. However, there are rumors that he could be traded. He is in the final year of his deal and may want to play in an offense where he has a bigger role. He has been working out away from the team this offseason.
If Boutte is dealt, the Patriots would have Mack Hollins, Demario Douglas and Kyle Williams behind Brown and Doubs. Williams showed flashes as a rookie and will look to get better in Year 2. Douglas and Hollins are going to be free agents after the season. Diggs would instantly be the third-best receiver on the team, and he has an argument to be the second-best.
He would be a much better target alongside Doubs and Brown than the Patriots’ current options, but bringing him back may hurt the development of Williams, who may be needed more in 2027 if Hollins and Douglas are gone. However, a trio of Brown, Diggs and Doubs would give the Patriots the best chance of dominating in the passing game.
Additionally, Diggs would seemingly have to come back on a shorter, much more team-friendly deal. His release likely had much to do with his large cap hit. Diggs had a great connection with Drake Maye and is clear of all charges brought against him. He would be a great addition to the Patriots, but it would likely come down to whether or not he wants to take a pay cut to stay in New England or have a bigger role for some more money elsewhere.
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