The Minnesota Vikings were relatively quiet during free agency. They signed Kyler Murray, but most of their other transactions involved bringing back veterans such as Aaron Jones and Eric Wilson.
But one former Viking could make his own headlines if he signs with someone. Stefon Diggs, 32, is a free agent after helping the New England Patriots reach Super Bowl LX two months ago.
His $25 million cap hit led to his release.
However, a return to the Patriots may not be off the table, says Bleacher Report‘s Gary Davenport. Diggs may not sign with New England, or anyone, until after the draft. But the receiver can still be a potential difference maker in year 12.
There is admittedly baggage with Diggs—there’s a reason that the 32-year-old has played for four teams, including two in the last two years. A torn ACL wiped out his 2024 season, and of late, Diggs has made as many headlines off the field as on it.
Not the good kind, either.
However, Diggs’ 1,000-yard season in 2025 was his seventh in the last eight years. Diggs also caught 100 passes in a season five different times.
It may not happen until after the draft, but whether it’s a return to New England or a landing spot like Baltimore, Denver or Kansas City, Diggs still has the potential to be a real factor for a contender in 2026.
Interestingly, Kirk Cousins was on this list as well, and Davenport was considering the idea of Cousins signing with the Steelers. But that was before Cousins signed with the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday.
Ideally, Diggs would be a team’s WR2. He could probably hold the WR1 label again, but he’s getting to an age where he should be a complementary piece rather than a “go-to” guy.
There are still some Vikings fans who would welcome Diggs back to Minnesota. The team does need a WR3, but would Diggs welcome that role? And what kind of contract would he be demanding? And would the Vikings want a personality like Diggs in the same position room as Jordan Addison?
The idea is intriguing but feels unlikely. Diggs will be playing somewhere in 2026, and he will likely show why he’s still one of the league’s more productive receivers.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: NFL Free Agency: Former Viking labeled as ‘difference maker’
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