In a whirlwind of controversy, New England Patriots’ star wide receiver Stefon Diggs has found himself at the center of a media storm due to his off-field behavior. The four-time Pro Bowler, who signed a lucrative three-year, $69 million contract with the Patriots in March 2025, is facing intense scrutiny following a viral video that surfaced during the Memorial Day weekend. The video, which captured Diggs on a yacht handling an unidentified pink substance, has sparked widespread debate about his professionalism and commitment to the team. This article delves into the details of the incident, the reactions from fans, media, and the Patriots organization, and the potential implications for Diggs’ future in New England.
The Viral Video That Ignited the Controversy
The controversy began when a video emerged on social media showing Stefon Diggs partying on a yacht, surrounded by women in swimsuits. In the clip, Diggs is seen handing a plastic bag containing an unidentified pink substance to one of the women, prompting speculation about its nature. The video quickly went viral, drawing attention from fans and media alike. While some initially questioned Diggs’ behavior due to the absence of his girlfriend, rapper Cardi B, subsequent posts by Cardi B confirmed her presence at the event, quelling rumors of infidelity. However, the focus soon shifted to the mysterious pink substance, with some speculating it could be an illegal drug, such as tusi (2C-B), though no conclusive evidence has been provided.
The video’s timing was particularly inopportune, as it coincided with the Patriots’ organized team activities (OTAs). Diggs was notably absent from a voluntary OTA session the day after the video surfaced, fueling speculation about his commitment to the team. Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel addressed the issue in a press conference, stating, “It’s something we’re aware of, and obviously we want to make great decisions on and off the field. Any conversations that I’ve had with Stefon will remain between him, I, and the club.” Vrabel’s measured response underscored the organization’s desire to handle the matter internally, but it did little to quell the growing backlash.
Diggs’ History of Off-Field Issues
This is not the first time Stefon Diggs has been embroiled in controversy. Known for his fiery competitiveness and outspoken nature, Diggs has a history of off-field incidents that have raised eyebrows. During his tenure with the Buffalo Bills, he was involved in a highly publicized sideline altercation with quarterback Josh Allen during the 2022 playoffs. He also left the locker room prematurely after the game and later skipped mandatory minicamp practices, prompting then-coach Sean McDermott to express concern about his behavior.
Diggs’ reputation for cryptic social media posts has also contributed to his controversial image. He has often used platforms like X to send ambiguous messages that hint at dissatisfaction with his team or situation, a habit that has followed him from Minnesota to Buffalo, Houston, and now New England. When the Patriots signed Diggs, they were well aware of his baggage, as noted by FOX Sports columnist Henry McKenna: “When the Patriots signed Diggs, they had to know they were getting a hassle. They signed on anyway, mainly because he was the only hassle who would have them.”
Public and Media Reactions
The viral video has elicited a range of reactions from fans, analysts, and media outlets. On X, fans expressed disappointment and frustration, with some questioning Diggs’ suitability as a role model for younger players. One user posted, “Kids look up to Diggs, and he let those kids down. We can all acknowledge that a mistake is a mistake.” Others were less forgiving, with some calling for the Patriots to cut ties with the receiver altogether.
Media outlets have been equally critical. A Boston Globe headline by Ben Volin suggested that while the Patriots may not be able to discipline Diggs directly for the video, they “have to be wondering if signing him was a mistake.” Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer speculated that Diggs’ future with the team could hinge on the credibility of his explanation to Vrabel, stating, “If Mike thinks he is lying to him, I just wouldn’t doubt Mike having the stomach to cut him.” Former Patriots quarterback and radio host Scott Zolak went further, claiming that cutting Diggs was “on the table” due to the video and other undisclosed issues.
Despite the backlash, some have defended Diggs, arguing that the incident has been blown out of proportion. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that the Patriots have no intention of releasing Diggs, emphasizing their investment in him as a key playmaker for quarterback Drake Maye. Patriots insider Tom E. Curran echoed this sentiment, stating, “The sense I’m getting is there will be no fallout based on what happened last weekend. The table has been packed away.”
Diggs’ Response and Return to Practice
In the face of mounting criticism, Diggs returned to Patriots’ OTAs on June 2, 2025, marking his first appearance since the video surfaced. He was seen participating in drills and catching passes from Drake Maye, though he remained a spectator during full-team drills due to his ongoing recovery from a torn ACL sustained in 2024. Diggs addressed the media for the first time since the incident on June 10, 2025, but deflected questions about the video, stating, “I didn’t want to talk about my personal life with people I didn’t know personally.” He also declined to clarify the nature of the pink substance, citing ongoing internal discussions with the team.
Diggs’ cryptic Instagram post on May 31, 2025, added fuel to the speculation. The post, which included photos from the past month and a caption reading, “to the month of May, I appreciate you none the less… gotta stay focused,” was interpreted by some as a subtle acknowledgment of the controversy. His reluctance to address the issue directly has frustrated some fans and media members, who view his attitude as unprofessional.
Implications for Diggs and the Patriots
The controversy surrounding Stefon Diggs raises significant questions about his future with the Patriots. On one hand, the team desperately needs a player of Diggs’ caliber to bolster their struggling receiving corps, which ranked last in the NFL in receiving yards in 2024. Diggs’ proven track record—six consecutive 1,000-yard seasons before his injury in 2024—makes him a critical asset for second-year quarterback Drake Maye. Former Patriots receiver Julian Edelman praised Diggs’ signing, noting that his competitive fire and veteran leadership could energize the young receiver room.
On the other hand, Diggs’ off-field behavior threatens to undermine the team’s efforts to establish a new culture under Mike Vrabel. The Patriots’ decision to sign Diggs was already seen as a risky move due to his injury history and reputation for drama, with Bleacher Report labeling it one of the worst signings of the offseason. The viral video has only amplified these concerns, with some analysts warning that Diggs’ actions could negatively impact locker room morale.
From a contractual perspective, the Patriots have some leverage. According to NBC Sports, Diggs has not yet passed a full physical due to his ACL injury, meaning the team could potentially void his contract without financial penalty if they choose to cut him. However, given the Patriots’ investment in Diggs and their need for a No. 1 receiver, most reports suggest they are likely to retain him, provided he can demonstrate commitment and accountability.
Conclusion
Stefon Diggs’ controversial attitude, as highlighted by the viral yacht video, has placed him under intense scrutiny as he begins his tenure with the New England Patriots. While his talent and experience make him a valuable asset, his off-field behavior has raised doubts about his professionalism and fit within the team’s culture. As the Patriots navigate this turbulent situation, the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether Diggs can regain the trust of his coaches, teammates, and fans. For now, the star receiver remains a lightning rod for criticism, with his every move watched closely by a skeptical public.