Stefon Diggs' Patriots Deal Includes Rare Injury Clauses

The New England Patriots made headlines by signing wide receiver Stefon Diggs to a three-year, $69 million contract, which includes significant protections regarding a pre-existing knee injury. Diggs, who is recovering from a torn ACL suffered in 2024, has a contract clause that allows the Patriots to terminate the deal if he fails to pass a physical or reinjures his knee, meaning they won't owe him guaranteed money in that case. Ja'Lynn Polk, a young wide receiver on the team, expressed enthusiasm about Diggs' signing, viewing it as an opportunity for mentorship and improvement for himself and the team. Despite the excitement, the competition for receiver positions has intensified with Diggs joining the roster. The contract's structure and protections reflect a growing trend in the NFL concerning player injuries and financial liability. Diggs previously had impressive seasons, making the Patriots hopeful that he can return to form and bolster their struggling offense.