Are New England Patriots preparing to move on as Stefon Diggs faces legal storm and massive cap hit?

Stefon Diggs is staring at a tense offseason that has little to do with football and everything to do with uncertainty. Days after the sting of a Super Bowl loss, his name surfaced in court documents tied to assault and strangulation charges.

At the same time, his future with the New England Patriots is under quiet review. The wide receiver wants stability. The team may be weighing flexibility.The timing could not feel more fragile. New England’s 29 to 13 defeat against the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX denied Diggs his first championship. Instead of regrouping for another run, he now faces questions about his contract and his reputation. Both battles may shape how long he stays in Foxborough.

Stefon Diggs faces contract doubt and legal timeline as Patriots weigh decision before March 13

Stefon Diggs’ contract sits at the center of the Patriots’ dilemma. His 2026 cap hit could reach $26.5 million, a figure the team is not obligated to carry if it decides to move on. According to Marc Bertrand, the direction already feels clear. “I think they’re headed for a breakup,” Marc Bertrand stated.

Diggs has made his position known. “I anticipate being here. I hope so,” he said after being asked if he will be staying with New England.

“I love my guys.” Those words reflected a player who found something meaningful in his first season with the club, even without the title.Still, the numbers matter. Releasing or trading him would save New England about $16.8 million, though it would also leave $9.7 million in dead money. A pay cut could solve the puzzle, but it appears unlikely Diggs would accept that path. The Patriots have until March 13 to decide, and there is little indication they want to carry the full salary.Off the field, the legal process has already begun. Diggs pleaded not guilty during his first court appearance. The hearing lasted only minutes. He was allowed to leave without bail but was ordered to avoid contact with his accuser. The charges include felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery, allegations he continues to deny.His next pre trial hearing is set for April 1. That date now sits beside another deadline in his life. One will help determine his freedom. The other could decide where, or if, he continues his career with the Patriots.