Patriots offseason addition predicted to have 1,000-yard campaign

The New England Patriots had a busy offseason, making many key additions in free agency. One of their later signings is predicted to have a great season.

The Patriots knew they needed to surround Drake Maye with weapons. They signed veteran wide receiver Stefon Diggs in free agency to a three-year, $63 million deal. He is coming off a season-ending ACL injury, but FanSided's Ryan McLaughlin predicted he would have a 1,000-yard season with the Patriots.

"Is that asking a lot from a 31-year-old receiver coming off a torn ACL? Maybe. But Diggs has the talent to do it, and McDaniels has the scheme and the quarterback to ensure it happens," wrote McLaughlin. "Diggs remains a deep threat and a matchup problem. You can bet he has a chip on his shoulder after his season ended prematurely in 2024, and that could be bad news for the Patriots' opponents."

Maye was a Pro Bowler last season, with a rather underwhelming array of targets. However, adding a player like Diggs could help him take a leap in Year 2. Diggs had 496 yards in eight games last season. He had been named to four consecutive Pro Bowls going into 2024. He had put together six straight 1,000-yard seasons going into last season as well.

Diggs was a First-Team All-Pro in 2020, his first season with the Buffalo Bills, when he led the league in receptions and yards. 2025 will be his 11th season in the NFL. He was on pace for another 1,000-yard season.

Follow The Sporting News On WhatsApp

He is expected to be the top target for Maye this upcoming season. He could have a resurgent season, helping lead a young Patriots team through the AFC East. 

More NFL: Bears could cut ties with $110 million star via trade after draft decision