The New England Patriots have been one of the best teams in the NFL during the 2025 campaign, with head coach Mike Vrabel quickly turning things around as the leader on the sideline and second-year quarterback Drake Maye emerging as one of the elite signal-callers in the league.
Despite coming off a disappointing loss to the division rival Buffalo Bills in Week 15, the Patriots are headed in the right direction. New England is on track to clinch a playoff spot in the AFC while potentially making a deep run in the postseason as a heavyweight in the conference.
However, star wide receiver Stefon Diggs has seen his role diminish over the last few weeks, as he has caught a total of eight passes for 72 receiving yards and zero touchdowns over the course of the previous three games. He also hasn’t seen the end zone since Week 11 against the division rival New York Jets.
Patriots OC Josh McDaniels Opens Up on Stefon Diggs’ Role
GettyStefon Diggs #8 of the New England Patriots
At one point, Diggs looked like he had resurrected his career with the Patriots while becoming one of Maye’s favorite targets downfield. Now, it seems he’s no longer a primary target in the passing game, prompting the media to ask Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels questions about the veteran wide receiver’s role moving forward.
“Look, they all should want to play as many snaps as we have,” McDaniels said. “And, that’s an impossibility because I know we’re trying to use everybody and trying to get contributions from all of them.
“But for us, and for me specifically, let’s see if we can establish more rhythm on both the first half, second half, get the play count up into the high 60s, 70s, and now I think the opportunities for every player on the team go up. So, no, there’s no special reason for that.”
Diggs was also asked about his role seemingly changing over the past few weeks, and admitted it has been an adjustment period for him.
“Just trying to get used to it,” Diggs said. “It was kind of the same in the beginning of the year, too. I just try to take advantage of the opportunities I do get, and when I am out there, be a vessel, be a positive force rather than being any other way. I’m adjusting to it. I just try to do what I’m asked and handle it the best way I can.
“I always want to be out there. I want to make plays, and I want to play at a high level. We have a lot of skill guys. We’ve got a lot of amazing players. I’m just doing what I can.”
With New England being a legitimate title contender and winning games consistently this season, Diggs accepting his new role is crucial to the team’s success, as they’ll need him when things ramp up during the playoffs.
Patriots Clinch Playoff Spot With Win in Week 16
GettyDrake Maye #10 of the New England Patriots
Heading into Week 16’s matchup against the Baltimore Ravens on the road at M&T Stadium, the Patriots have an opportunity to punch their ticket to the playoffs with a win over Lamar Jackson and company.
New England can also clinch a playoff spot if the Houston Texans lose to the Las Vegas Raiders or if Philip Rivers‘ Indianapolis Colts fail to defeat the San Francisco 49ers.
Needless to say, there’s a good chance the Patriots will be playoff-bound once the dust settles in Week 16.
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