Mike Vrabel isn’t afraid of tough questions. But on Thursday, the new Patriots head coach clearly didn’t like one about his new No. 1 receiver, Stefon Diggs.
It started innocently enough: NBC Sports Boston’s Phil Perry asked about Diggs’ recent interview with The Athletic, where the veteran wideout said he felt “great” but added, “we’ll see about Week 1.” The comment set off speculation about whether Diggs would be on the field when the regular season kicks off.
Vrabel’s response? A mix of sarcasm and pushback. “Did you really believe that, Phil? I mean, you’re a smart guy. I don’t know where you went to school – it wasn’t Ohio State. But like, do you really believe that? Or are you just trying to bait me into something?” he said, leaning forward at the podium.
Perry replied that he wasn’t trying to provoke, just referencing Diggs’ own words. Vrabel countered by questioning the context, pointing out that Diggs has been a regular participant in training camp. “I’m excited about where he’s at. We’ll see when Week 1 comes. He’s going to practice today. He works hard, he cares – that’s what matters.”
A Big Contract, a Big Comeback
The Patriotsmade a major commitment to Diggs this offseason, signing the four-time Pro Bowler to a three-year, $63.5 million deal. It’s a bold investment in a player who’s returning from a torn ACL suffered last season with the Houston Texans. Even with the injury cutting his year short, Diggs posted 65 catches for 752 yards, per Pro Football Reference.
Phil Perry later reported that Diggs’ outspoken personality might already be challenging the organization. That wouldn’t be a first – Diggs’ fiery on-field demeanor made headlines in Buffalo after a heated sideline moment with Josh Allen during the 2023 playoffs, as reported by ESPN.
This weekend’s preseason finale could be Diggs’ first snap in a Patriots uniform – fittingly against the Minnesota Vikings, the team that drafted him. Fans are hoping to see early signs of chemistry between Diggs and rookie quarterback Drake Maye, taken third overall in April.
Whether Thursday’s verbal dust-up was just a heat-of-the-moment exchange or a preview of Vrabel’s combative media style, one thing’s clear: New England’s new era under Vrabel isn’t short on personality. And if Diggs can deliver between the lines, the conversation will shift quickly from podium tension to touchdowns.
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