Introduction to the Incident
New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs is facing strangulation and other criminal charges stemming from an incident earlier this month, according to police. News of the charges emerged after a court hearing Tuesday in Dedham, Massachusetts. It is unclear what led to the charges, which include felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery.
Reaction to the Charges
Diggs’ lawyer, David Meier, said in an emailed statement that Diggs "categorically denies these allegations." Meier said the allegations never occurred, describing them as unsubstantiated and uncorroborated. "The timing and motivation for making the allegations is crystal clear: they are the direct result of an employee-employer financial dispute that was not resolved to the employee’s satisfaction," Meier wrote. In a statement, the Patriots said they were also standing by Diggs: "We support Stefon," the team said.
Background on Stefon Diggs
Stefon Diggs #8 of the New England Patriots reacts after the game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on December 21, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
Diggs, 32, established himself as one of the NFL’s best wide receivers during a run with Minnesota and Buffalo from 2018 to 2023, when he had six consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons and was selected to the Pro Bowl four times. After a lackluster stint in Houston last year, Diggs ended up in New England, signing a three-year, $69 million deal in free agency that guaranteed him $26 million.
Impact on the Team
Diggs has proven a reliable target for second-year quarterback Drake Maye and is a big reason why the team has once again clinched the AFC East title as the team heads toward the playoffs. Off the field, though, his tenure with the Patriots got off to a rocky start when a video surfaced on social media in May showing Diggs passing what appeared to be a bag of pink crystals to women on a boat. It wasn’t clear what the substance was, and an NFL spokesperson said the league would not comment. Patriots coach Mike Vrabel said the team would handle that matter internally.
Related Incidents
RELATED: Patriots coach quiet on Stefon Diggs’ boat video: ‘It’s something that we’re aware of’
Conclusion
The charges against Stefon Diggs are serious and could have significant implications for his career and the New England Patriots. However, both Diggs and the Patriots have denied the allegations, and it remains to be seen how this situation will unfold. The Patriots have expressed their support for Diggs, and he continues to be a valuable player for the team.
FAQs
- Q: What charges is Stefon Diggs facing?
A: Diggs is facing felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery charges. - Q: What is Diggs’ response to the allegations?
A: Diggs categorically denies the allegations through his lawyer, David Meier. - Q: How has the team responded to the allegations?
A: The New England Patriots have expressed their support for Diggs, stating "We support Stefon." - Q: What is the background of Stefon Diggs?
A: Diggs is a 32-year-old wide receiver who has established himself as one of the NFL’s best during his time with Minnesota and Buffalo. - Q: How will these charges affect Diggs’ career?
A: The impact of these charges on Diggs’ career is uncertain and will depend on the outcome of the legal proceedings.
