New England Patriots - NESN.com
Stefon Diggs followed a breakout performance by noting that he’s still adjusting to the New England Patriots’ offense. Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels thinks the wide receiver is further along than he indicated.
Diggs caught six of seven targets for a season-high 101 yards in last Sunday’s 42-13 win over the Carolina Panthers. The veteran wide receiver claimed after the game that his comfort level in New England’s offense remains a “five out of 10.”
McDaniels referenced that remark Thursday, per CLNS Media, when asked about Diggs’ versatility.
“It’s probably like a nine out of 10,” McDaniels said with a smile and wink. “In terms of understanding the system and the scheme, we probably got a little bit of juice left to squeeze out of the orange. Obviously it’s important, and I think he was being modest when he said that.”
McDaniels wasn’t the first coach to playfully discuss Diggs’ comments. Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel joked about Diggs’ self-assessment on WEEI’s “The Greg Hill Show” earlier this week.
“He should study more,” Vrabel said. “Five out of 10? We need to get going. I’ll have to talk to Stef today. Five out of 10. I went to Ohio State. That’s failing.”
Diggs clarified the quote on Wednesday, explaining that he was being a bit facetious to highlight his desire for further growth.
“The way I look at it, I never want to get too comfortable,” Diggs said, per MassLive’s Karen Guregian. “I said five out of 10 because if it’s eight out of 10, or nine out of 10, I don’t really have to look at my notes. I don’t really have to look over it multiple times. For me, I’m just trying to keep it at a comfort level of being hungry and humble.”
McDaniels and Co. will hope Diggs looks comfortable when leading the Patriots into a pivotal Week 5 showdown against the Buffalo Bills on Sunday night.
