New England Patriots - NESN.com
The Patriots haven’t officially announced the signing of Stefon Diggs, but head coach Mike Vrabel all but confirmed the move himself.
During an episode of “Green Light with Chris Long” released Thursday afternoon, Vrabel weighed in on the Diggs signing and other offseason happenings in Foxboro, Mass. The veteran head coach spoke glowingly about what Diggs would bring to the room.
“Yeah, just trying to make sure we’re supporting Drake and supporting the football team,” Vrabel told Long. “This is a highly competitive, confident receiver that’s produced throughout his career. And multiple ways. Play style, he’s got a play strength to him that you see. He can play physical. Route craft, good at the catch point. He’s been good in the red zone. There’s a play style to him that I’ve always appreciated and that we want to continue to enhance, and make sure he’s doing things to help us.”
Vrabel shed a little light into the conversations with Diggs, as well.
“But it’s just his conversation, his demeanor, his attitude and his presence have been great through our conversations,” Vrabel said. “Hopefully we can continue to add good players.”
Diggs reportedly agreed to a three-year deal worth $69 million with $26 million guaranteed. The difference in guaranteed money and total value, however, might indicate a deal shorter than the three years. Given Diggs is entering his age-32 season coming off a torn ACL, it’s worth waiting to see the details that eventually will surface.
At this point, though, it’s clear Vrabel and the Patriots are excited to have Diggs in New England. The veteran wideout, who was on pace for a seventh consecutive 1,000-yard season before his torn ACL on Oct. 27, is far and away the most talented pass-catcher in the locker room.
