New England Patriots - NESN.com
The New England Patriots took the field Wednesday for their first joint session with the Washington Commanders, but one notable name was missing at first.
Wide receiver Stefon Diggs, who had previously been a full participant in camp, was not spotted during the start of practice, according to MassLive’s Chris Mason. Diggs eventually appeared in full uniform after working out with a trainer on the side, according to Ben Volin of the Boston Globe.
There was no injury publicly reported following Tuesday’s walkthrough, and head coach Mike Vrabel made no mention of Diggs’ potential absence during his morning availability.
Diggs had been a consistent presence through the early stages of training camp and had made an impact in recent sessions, including a pair of red-zone scores last week during work with quarterback Drake Maye.
“Just his mindset, just attacking the football,” Maye said recently, as transcribed by MassLive. “When the ball’s in the air, he’s telling me it’s his. That attitude is catching on in our receiver room.”
The 31-year-old’s recent workload did not suggest any cause for concern. On Monday, Diggs logged 22 snaps in full-team drills, adding a touchdown grab during red-zone work as reported by Christopher Price of the Boston Globe. He appeared healthy and engaged by all reports, making Wednesday’s brief absence all the more curious.
The timing comes as the Patriots turn the page from internal reps to external competition. Wednesday’s joint practice with Washington marked the 12th day of training camp and the first opportunity for players to go head-to-head with a playoff team from last season.
Diggs and fellow starter DeMario Douglas had clearly established themselves as the team’s top wideouts through 11 sessions. Whether this brief absence proves minor or something more remains to be seen.
The Patriots are set to open preseason play Friday night against the Commanders at Gillette Stadium.
