The New England Patriots made one of the biggest moves by acquiring star wide receiver A.J. Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles. The blockbuster trade instantly gave the Patriots a legitimate boost heading into the 2026 season.
But while Brown’s arrival has generated plenty of excitement, it has also reignited speculation surrounding former Patriots receiver Stefon Diggs and whether a reunion could still be on the table.
According to longtime Patriots insider Mike Reiss, that scenario appears unlikely.
Speaking with Steve Burton on CBS Sports, Reiss was asked directly about the possibility of Diggs returning to New England after spending the 2025 season with the franchise.
Reiss made his feelings clear.
“Personally, I would be surprised,” he said while discussing the possibility of Diggs returning.
“No one within the organization has explicitly told me that, Steve, but my distinct feeling when they moved on from him in March was that both sides felt it was a great one-year run and agreed to go their separate ways. They didn’t necessarily close the door forever and say it couldn’t happen, but he was making over $20 million last year, and I can tell you it won’t be at that number again,” he added.
Why Stefon Diggs’ Return Feels Impossible
Brown arrives in New England as one of the NFL’s best receivers after four good seasons with the Eagles. He threw 1003 yards last season with 7 touchdowns and established himself as one of the league’s most dominant players.
With Brown now expected to be Drake Maye’s primary target, the urgency to bring back Diggs appears to be gone.
Even if discussions were to happen in the future, Diggs likely wouldn’t get the same salary he was getting earlier.
Rather than rushing into a deal, Reiss believes Diggs may simply be waiting for the right situation to emerge around the league.
Training camp injuries and roster changes often create opportunities for veteran free agents, and a player of Diggs’ caliber could choose to remain patient before making a decision.
For now, however, the Patriots appear focused on their new receiving group led by Brown. And based on Reiss’ latest comments, a Stefon Diggs return isn’t something many inside New England are expecting anytime soon.
Also Read:
Is Stefon Diggs Going to the Chiefs? Insider Weighs In on the Possibility
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