FOXBORO — Stefon Diggs, the New England Patriots’ star wide receiver, is gearing up for an emotionally charged return to Buffalo this Sunday night, marking his first game against the Bills since his surprising trade to the Houston Texans in the 2024 offseason. The four-time Pro Bowl selection opened up about the bittersweet homecoming, his abrupt exit from Buffalo, and the bonds he still cherishes with his former teammates.
Diggs, who was traded by the Bills along with fifth- and sixth-round draft picks for a second-round pick, admitted that the move was tough. “Obviously, a little sentimental. I spent a lot of time there. Loved that area,” Diggs shared during a press conference on Wednesday. “I’m familiar with the guys there, the guys that I did maintain a relationship with. I’m looking forward to seeing them, but it’s gonna be a little bit emotional.” Despite the emotional weight, Diggs is determined to “keep the main thing the main thing” as he prepares to face his former team in what he anticipates will be a “helluva atmosphere.”
Reflecting on his departure from Buffalo, Diggs described the trade as a harsh reality of the NFL’s business side. “It’s the nature of the business. I guess. Obviously, it was hard for me. It was a difficult time,” he said. “I spent so much time there, I built a lot of bonds, a lot of friendships, so it’s obviously gonna be hard and emotional.” While Diggs didn’t dive into specifics about whether he sought a fresh start or was reluctant to leave, he emphasized the personal connections he formed in Buffalo. “You spend a lot of time with people, it becomes more personal rather than just professional,” he noted. “I’m not in control of nothing. I get open, I catch the ball. But as far as the internal stuff, obviously I miss those guys over there.”
Now with the Patriots after signing a three-year, $63.5 million deal in free agency, Diggs is bracing for a “hostile environment” at Highmark Stadium. He’s been vocal about preparing his teammates for the intense crowd noise, advising them to “stay in the green” and avoid “getting behind the eight ball.” The Patriots have struggled with slow starts this season, and Diggs sees the upcoming game as another test. “I’ve been there for a while, so I’m trying to give them everything, at least a little bit that might help,” he said.
Diggs’ return to the field has been nothing short of remarkable, especially considering he suffered a torn ACL in late October last year. Defying expectations, he avoided the PUP list and was fully ready for the season’s start. After a slow beginning, Diggs hit his stride in Week 4 against the Panthers, hauling in six catches for 101 yards—his best performance of the season. “I’m not scared at all,” Diggs said of his recovery. “I trust that I put the time in. I trust that my rehab process with Dr. Rif (Sharif Tabbah) and even with the team, and how they managed me in camp.” He credited the Patriots’ staff for keeping him on a “short leash” during training camp to prevent overexertion, adding with a laugh, “Cut on the tape, I look halfway decent.”
The veteran wideout’s chemistry with rookie quarterback Drake Maye has also started to shine. Maye had promised Diggs more targets in the weeks leading up to the Panthers game, and the results spoke for themselves. “He did, and it worked out for the Patriots and for Diggs,” the receiver said, acknowledging the growing connection.
Diggs’ return to Buffalo is poised to be a major storyline, especially as it unfolds on primetime television. The Patriots’ decision to sign Diggs in late March, after passing on other high-profile wide receivers like Terry McLaurin, Calvin Ridley, Tee Higgins, Chris Godwin, and Brandon Aiyuk, has paid dividends. Through four games, Diggs has outperformed many of his peers, some of whom are still recovering from injuries. His resilience and production have made him a cornerstone of New England’s offense.
As he prepares to face the Bills, Diggs isn’t shying away from the significance of the moment. “It is a huge thing for me,” he admitted. “I got a lot of respect and I got a lot of love for that city and that fan base and even the players over there.” While the emotions will run high, Diggs is ready to embrace the challenge, give some hugs, and let his performance on the field do the talking.