The New England Patriots have an even bigger need for receiver help ahead of the NFL Draft and free agency.
New England was expected to add some weapons for Drake Maye and the offense. Yet, ahead of the start of the new league year, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported on Wednesday that the Patriots plan to release Stefon Diggs.
Diggs signed a three-year, $69 million contract with the Patriots but was let go just one year into the deal. Diggs led the Patriots in receiving with 1,013 yards on 85 receptions and four touchdowns.
Following the news that the Patriots planned to release Diggs, Patriots insider Phil Perry of NBC Sports Boston linked the team to Omar Cooper Jr. ahead of the NFL Draft.
“The draft is even deeper with inside-out options who would work the short-to-intermediate area as Diggs did,” Perry wrote. “The best fit of the bunch might be Omar Cooper Jr. from Indiana, whose physicality after the catch and as a blocker in the running game would be appreciated by Vrabel and Josh McDaniels.
“If the Patriots are able to address the edge-defender spot in free agency, Cooper would be a strong choice as Diggs' long-term replacement.”
Cooper helped Indiana win the National Championship last season as he recorded 69 receptions for 937 yards and 13 touchdowns.
The 2026 NFL Draft is set for April 23-25 in Pittsburgh.
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