The Patriots were expected to make some big-time moves to add a wide receiver to their mostly unimpressive roster, with many speculating it would take a blockbuster trade to get the level of talent needed for the 2025 season. Although that didn't happen, they did manage to sign Stefon Diggs in free agency and draft Kyle Williams in the third round, adding two explosive players to the offense for Drake Maye to work with.
The decision to sign Diggs after not only tearing his ACL mid-season in his lone year with the Texans but also seemingly working his way out of Buffalo had many analysts and fans concerned he wasn't the right guy for the job. He has a long history of controversial moments during his career, some of which happened while playing against the Patriots.
However, nothing of the sort has been discussed since his arrival. In fact, coaches and teammates have suggested the complete opposite, with those working closest to him continuing to share the excitement of having him on the roster.
That was the case with DeMario Douglas on Tuesday, who spoke to reporters after the second day of OTAs to explain just how valuable Diggs will be for the team moving forward.
DeMario Douglas predicts one of the biggest impacts Stefon Diggs will have on the receiving corps this season
Besides instantly becoming Maye's go-to weapon on game day, there is more that Diggs is expected to bring to the Patriots roster that might not show up on a stat sheet.
That's something Douglas discussed with reporters after practice, stating that Diggs will "bring that dawg out" in an otherwise predominantly quiet wide receiver room.
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Although that might not be something the team benefits from statistically, it's always good to have strong camaraderie behind the scenes and make teammates feel more comfortable and excited about their roles. That appears to be what Diggs will do for his new Patriots teammates, and the offense will inevitably be better because of it.
In addition, his production and leadership will bring out the best in those around him, which will play a significant role in the development of the younger players in the locker room, like Javon Baker and Ja'Lynn Polk, who are believed to be on thin ice this offseason.
It seems easy to see exactly why Vrabel and Co. were so interested in signing Diggs beyond the potential concerns that some had regarding his fit with the team. If he's making this kind of impact before even suiting up on game day, the sky will be the limit once the season actually begins.