Could Stefon Diggs be making a dramatic return to New England? The signs are certainly pointing in that direction, especially now that his old jersey number is available again.
In a recent roster update, ESPN's Mike Reiss reported that second-year wide receiver Kyle Williams has decided to stick with No. 18 instead of taking Diggs' former No. 8 jersey. Williams made the choice "upon further reflection," leaving the door wide open for a potential Diggs reunion.
The timing couldn't be more intriguing. The four-time Pro Bowl wideout was released by the Patriots at the start of the new league year, a move that was largely expected given his hefty $26.5 million salary cap hit for 2026. At 32 years old, that would have made him the second-highest cap figure on the entire roster—a number the team simply wasn't willing to carry.
But here's the thing: despite the financial split, the Patriots haven't shut the door on Diggs entirely. Executive vice president of player personnel has repeatedly left the possibility open for a reunion. And Diggs himself seems to be stoking the flames. In a recent social media post, he laid out his impressive stats from last season: "I played 52% of the snaps and finished with 85 catches for 1,045 yards coming off an ACL. Where we going?"
Patriots star cornerback Christian Gonzalez didn't hesitate, replying, "To the pats." Diggs responded with two wide-eyed emojis, leaving fans to read between the lines.
For context, Diggs led the team in receiving last season with 85 catches for 1,013 yards and four touchdowns—a remarkable feat considering he was recovering from ACL surgery. His production was a bright spot in an otherwise challenging offensive season.
The Patriots have already made moves to bolster their receiving corps, signing veteran Romeo Doubs in free agency and reportedly planning to trade for three-time All-Pro A.J. Brown after June 1. Adding Diggs to that mix would create one of the most formidable wide receiver groups in the NFL.
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Foxborough. With his number now available and the team's front office keeping the door open, a Diggs return could be the story that defines the Patriots' 2026 season.