FOXBOROUGH, MA — Just as the New England Patriots ride the wave of a three-game winning streak and ascend to the top of the AFC East, their worst nightmare regarding player health appears to be materializing. Star wide receiver Stefon Diggs, who has been a centerpiece of the team’s mid-season surge, was a limited participant in Wednesday’s practice with a chest injury.
The new injury designation is particularly concerning for the Patriots faithful. Diggs, who leads the team with 32 catches and 387 receiving yards, was a question mark entering the season after tearing his ACL in October 2024. While his knee has shown no sign of an issue, this new chest ailment adds an unexpected wrinkle to the team’s Week 7 preparations.
Limiting Their Star Weapon
Diggs’ limited practice status places a spotlight on the team’s upcoming road contest against the Tennessee Titans. Despite the injury, the 32-year-old receiver gave no indication after practice that he expects to miss Sunday’s game, a positive sign suggesting the team may be taking a precautionary approach, especially with a veteran player facing a third consecutive road game.
Speaking to reporters, Diggs focused on the team’s mental approach to the week, emphasizing the need to stay grounded despite their success.
“Hell no. The biggest thing is, don’t drink the Kool Aid,” Diggs stressed, pushing back against the idea of midseason self-congratulations. “People are going to say a lot of things about you but it’s the second quarter of the season… I feel like you can get distracted by how good they say you are.”
His commitment to the “process” seems to align with head coach Mike Vrabel’s messaging, who is making a highly anticipated return to face the team that fired him two years ago. Vrabel downplayed the revenge narrative, stating, “we’re not trying to win one for the Gipper here. We’re just trying to make sure that these guys are focused on improving…”
Broader Injury Concerns Mount
Diggs isn’t the only concern on the Patriots’ initial injury report for the week. The defensive front is also ailing, with pass-rushers Harold Landry and Anfernee Jennings both sitting out Wednesday’s practice with ankle injuries. Safety Jaylinn Hawkins also missed practice with a hamstring issue, continuing his absence after missing Week 6.
Veteran defensive tackle Christian Barmore and right tackle Morgan Moses were also listed as limited participants.
While no player has been ruled out for the Sunday showdown in Nashville, the new injury to their top playmaker, Stefon Diggs, is the story that will dominate headlines as New England looks to extend its winning streak. The team will provide further updates on Diggs’ status with their Thursday and Friday practice reports.