Denver Broncos emerge as top landing spot for Stefon Diggs after Patriots release

The New England Patriots told veteran wide receiver Stefon Diggs that they will release him at the start of the new league year. This means that he will be one of the most sought-after players in free agency.

The decision ends Diggs' short career in New England and gives a number of teams a chance to go after the four-time Pro Bowler before the 2026 season.Diggs joined New England on a three-year, $69 million contract in March 2025, but the partnership appears to have run its course after just one season. While he still produced solid numbers with 85 receptions for 1,013 yards and four touchdowns, the Patriots have decided to move forward without him.

Why Denver could be a strong fit for StefonDigg

The Broncos are currently in the middle of building a competitive roster around quarterback Bo Nix, who is entering an important stage of his young career. Denver’s front office is reportedly eager to strengthen the receiving corps in order to maximize Nix’s development and improve the team’s passing attack.

Adding Diggs would offer Denver a proven experienced target right away, along with Courtland Sutton. Sutton has become a big part of the Broncos' offense, and adding another seasoned wide receiver might help head coach Sean Payton find a balance and give him more options.

Diggs' relationship with the Broncos' offensive coordinator, Davis Webb, might also help Denver. Diggs and Webb used to play together for the Buffalo Bills. Diggs has said in public that Webb helped him learn the offensive system while they were both in Buffalo.Diggs has also said nice things about Nix and Payton in the past, calling the quarterback "a hell of a player" and praising the Broncos organization.

Uncertainty still surrounds Stefon Diggs’ future

Despite the potential football fit, Diggs’ situation remains complicated.

The veteran receiver is currently dealing with legal issues stemming from an alleged incident involving a former personal chef, which includes felony strangulation and misdemeanor assault charges. His next pretrial hearing is scheduled for early April.

Those off-field issues could affect how teams deal with the veteran in negotiations. Some teams might want to wait for more information before signing a contract.Even yet, Diggs' history as a productive receiver makes him an interesting choice. He can still be a high-volume pass catcher and a leader in a group of receivers, even at 32.The Broncos may have to weigh the pros and cons of each player before making a decision. Denver could finally get the player it almost signed a year ago if the legal issues are resolved and the team decides to move forward.