The [New England Patriots](https://nesn.com/new-england-patriots) have made the long-awaited decision to part ways with superstar wide receiver Stefon Diggs, NFL Network’s [Tom Pelissero reported](https://x.com/LosTalksPats/status/2029292465161945497?s=20). The release will be made official at the start of the league year next week.
Diggs led the team in receiving yards in his one and only season in Foxboro, posting 1,013 yards on 85 receptions and four touchdowns.
He emerged as a vocal leader on the young team, but in the end, his contract was too great to bring into next season.
Diggs signed a three-year, $69 million contract around this time last year. He made just $10 million of that in his first season with the team, in a prove-it deal.
It is unclear whether or not the off-the-field issues played into the Patriots' decision to release the ten-year NFL vet.
Diggs is currently involved in a legal proceeding dating back to an alleged December assault on his private chef.
The move creates $9.7 million in dead cap space for the 2026 season, but frees up more than $16.8 million for 2026 free agency.
The Patriots now turn their sights towards finding a new wide receiver No. 1 for quarterback Drake Maye.