The last time a New England Patriots receiver sat in front of a camera and told fans to tune in was just over a year ago, when 2024 fourth-round pick Javon Baker told Pats fans to "come to the stadium and bring y'all popcorn."
Baker followed that message up with a one reception season, where he picked up 12 yards, in Week 18. Pats fans may be a bit discouraged from promises involving bringing popcorn to watch the team.
This year, however, Pats fans are being encouraged by a receiver who is likely to see some more playing time in Stefon Diggs.
The Patriots are putting out a behind-the-scenes documentary of the upcoming NFL season under new head coach Mike Vrabel titled "Forged in Foxborough." In the first episode, Diggs gives out a warning to the NFL: He's going to be ready for this year, and with Vrabel leading the ship, you're not going to want to miss it.
“You know, Coach Vrabes, he’s real convincing,” Diggs said. “But he had a career that’s something you can attest to of hard work and being a part of something special. … I’m going to give it everything that I got. And I want to win real, real bad. Everybody that’s excited, grab your popcorn, grab your jacket. Let’s get to work.”
Diggs signed a three-year, $69 million contract with the Patriots after spending one season with the Houston Texans. Diggs spent four seasons with the Bills where he was a perennial Pro Bowl selection.
Diggs' comments in conjunction with the $360 million in contracts the Patriots dished out this offseason should inspire confidence in Patriots fans. Perhaps no addition has the potential to be as game-changing as Diggs, who can be a game-breaking receiver and could greatly improve the Patriots' chances of going from a three-win season to playoff contention.