The New England Patriots released veteran wide receiver Stefon Diggs earlier this offseason, but the three-time Pro Bowler has remained unsigned as teams weighed his availability amid ongoing legal and league scrutiny. On Friday, that uncertainty was finally resolved when the NFL announced it had closed its investigation into Diggs, determining there was insufficient evidence to find a violation of the league’s personal conduct policy.
The investigation stemmed from allegations made by Jamila Adams, Diggs’ former live-in personal chef. Adams brought charges that led to Diggs being accused of felony strangulation and misdemeanor assault and battery. Diggs pleaded not guilty and, following a two-day trial, was found not guilty on all counts. However, an acquittal in criminal court does not preclude NFL discipline. The league maintains its own standards under the personal conduct policy and can impose suspensions even in the absence of criminal charges or convictions.
A violation would have carried a minimum six-game suspension. With the investigation now closed and no discipline forthcoming, Diggs enters the free-agent market without the threat of suspension hanging over him.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Network was the first to report the league’s decision, bringing closure to a process that had lingered for months. While Diggs has technically been eligible to sign with any team since his release, the combination of legal proceedings and the NFL’s parallel investigation created a significant cloud over his immediate future.
Now cleared, Diggs’ market is expected to heat up quickly. The 32-year-old wideout remains a proven playmaker, having recorded over 1,000 receiving yards in his most recent season. His route-running precision, contested-catch ability, and experience as a No. 1 option make him a potential difference-maker for contending teams looking to bolster their passing attacks.
For teams in need of veteran receiver help, the timing is notable. Training camps are approaching, and the opportunity to add a high-level talent without sacrificing draft capital or long-term salary commitments could prove attractive. Diggs has shown throughout his career that, when healthy and motivated, he can elevate an offense and contribute immediately in high-stakes situations.
The resolution of the NFL’s investigation removes the final major obstacle to Diggs resuming his career. While questions about his long-term durability and fit in specific schemes will remain part of the evaluation process for interested teams, the off-field concerns that had stalled his market have now been put to rest.
As the free-agent wide receiver carousel continues to turn, Stefon Diggs is officially back in play — and several NFL offenses could soon look a lot more dangerous.