New Patriots Icon Drake Maye Defends Legend Tom Brady Amid Calls to Tear Down His Statue at Gillette Stadium Following Recent Controversies

FOXBOROUGH, Massachusetts — A short yet emotional chapter between the New England Patriots and offensive star Stefon Diggs is coming to an end. After just one season in New England, Diggs has confirmed that he will leave the team when the new NFL league year begins, closing a relationship that once carried high expectations for both sides. According to multiple sources within the league, the Patriots have informed Diggs that his contract will be terminated next week. The decision stems from salary-cap pressure after the team recently returned to the Super Bowl. The front office was forced to make difficult choices in order to maintain financial flexibility ahead of free agency. Before reaching the final decision, the Patriots proposed that Diggs restructure his contract in order to reduce the salary-cap burden. Had he accepted, he could have remained the centerpiece of New England’s offense. But the 32-year-old star declined the offer, forcing the team to clear approximately $16.8 million in cap space by releasing him. During the 2025 season, Diggs still proved his value. He became the most reliable receiving target for young quarterback Drake Maye, recording 85 receptions, 1,013 yards, and four touchdowns. Those contributions helped the Patriots return to the Super Bowl for the first time since 2019. What makes the situation more controversial is the context before Diggs arrived in New England. Prior to joining the Patriots, he had already been released by three different teams within four years, leading many around the league to question his long-term future in the NFL. Despite that reputation, the Patriots still gave him a new opportunity with a three-year contract worth roughly $69 million. Because of that history, the reaction from the Patriots fan base has been intense. A portion of supporters believe Diggs turned his back on the very team that helped revive his career. On social media, many fans criticized his decision as a lack of loyalty to the organization that placed its trust in him. Nevertheless, the situation also reflects the harsh business reality of the NFL. Diggs now enters free agency and is expected to attract interest from several teams looking for a veteran No. 1 wide receiver. Meanwhile, the Patriots must search for a new offensive weapon for the 2026 season after losing the leader of their receiving corps.