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In a surprise piece of news, former Minnesota Vikings, Buffalo Bills and Houston Texans wide receiver Stefon Diggs is visiting with the Patriots. Chad Graff of The Athletic broke the news last night.

Diggs, 31, suffered a season-ending ACL tear eight games into last season with the Texans. At the time of the injury, he had 496 receiving yards and three touchdowns.

Prior to last season, Diggs was with the Buffalo Bills for four seasons. He was a pro bowler all four years. Diggs was drafted in the fifth round of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings and made the famous “Minneapolis Miracle” game-winning touchdown catch against the Saints in a the 2017 playoff game. 

The fact that Diggs is in town is surprising. Especially given his age and injury history. He has also had a history of being a bit of a diva which does not jive with the the culture new coach Mike Vrabel wants to instill. 

It will be interesting to see if Diggs stays and signs a contract or leaves town without one. He has been a Patriots killer in recent years so don’t be surprised if the team signs him to a one year deal.

As far as coaching connections are concerned, Diggs was in Minnesota in 2018 when current Patriots coach Todd Downing was the tight ends coach. 

The Patriots are in desperate need of a number one receiver in a room that features Kayshon Boutte, Kendrick Bourne, Mack Hollins, Demario Douglas Ja’Lynn Polk and Javon Baker. Time will tell if Diggs will join this group and give the Patriots a much needed first option.

Diggs is not expected to be ready by training camp and could miss the start of the season.