Despite Stefon Diggs skipping voluntary OTAs and attracting attention for a viral boat appearance, the New England Patriots remain confident in the wide receiver’s preparation for the upcoming season. During practice sessions in early June, Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels expressed no concerns about Diggs’ absence, emphasizing the veteran’s diligent study of play material and readiness to contribute once training camp begins.
McDaniels highlighted Diggs’ engagement with the team’s strategic information, stating that numerous opportunities exist for coaches to instruct all players moving forward. This assurance indicates a strong belief in Diggs’ professionalism and dedication despite his physical absence from early team activities.
Coaching Staff Praise Diggs’ Hard Work and Familiarity with the Offense
In addition to McDaniels’s comments, Patriots wide receivers coach Todd Downing praised Diggs’ work ethic, noting the advantage Diggs gains from prior experience with the Patriots’ current offensive system. Since Diggs played under Brian Daboll in Buffalo, much of the offensive scheme is familiar, easing his transition and allowing for a sort of “refresher course.” Downing affirmed that Diggs has been actively preparing, reinforcing the team’s optimistic outlook on his early-season impact.
Jets’ Leadership Culture Shapes Quincy Williams’ Development
Meanwhile, across the league, the New York Jets have embraced a leadership-focused approach under new head coach Aaron Glenn. Linebacker Quincy Williams shared insights into an extensive conversation with Glenn at the start of the offseason, where Glenn outlined his vision for the defense and challenged Williams to evolve both as a leader and strategist on the field.
Williams noted that the coach encouraged him to use intellect to read opposing offenses and to anchor the team’s defensive foundation. Conversations with former teammate and linebacker C.J. Mosley have also aided Williams in cultivating a leadership mindset, as Mosley, who spent three seasons with Williams before his offseason release, has been mentoring him on how to lead within a new team environment.
Mike McDaniel Commends Rookies’ Football Focus and Readiness
Meanwhile, Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel expressed enthusiasm about the team’s rookie class following their voluntary OTA sessions. He expressed a notable shift in roster strategy, moving away from sidelining rookies during early training. McDaniel praised the young players for their intense focus on football and their daily commitment to becoming productive NFL contributors quickly.
McDaniel stressed the importance of having the right mindset to support teammates and ensure collective success, indicating that the veteran presence and youthful energy are aligned around a strong team ethos.
Maryland Coach Applauds Dante Trader Jr.’s Football Intelligence
Maryland head coach Mike Locksley highlighted the capabilities of cornerback Dante Trader Jr., a fifth-round draft pick and Terrapins alumnus from 2021 to 2024. Locksley praised Trader’s football intelligence and adaptability, indicating the player’s ability to both learn and apply new concepts effectively on the field.
Illustrating his coaching philosophy, Locksley remarked that if a player can be taught something, Trader has the aptitude to execute it well, suggesting a promising outlook for Trader’s professional growth.
Veteran Players Emphasize Mental Preparation and Leadership Growth
The broader NFL community continues to focus on mental readiness as a cornerstone of successful seasons. For example, the Jets’ attention to building leadership through sustained dialogue and study reflects a league-wide recognition that physical talent must be paired with strategic thinking and team cohesion.
These efforts align with the narrative surrounding Stefon Diggs, whose careful preparation despite missing early OTAs exemplifies the professional standards that teams expect from seasoned players. Such dedication can set the tone for a productive campaign and positively influence younger teammates.
Looking Ahead: What Diggs and Others’ Preparation Means for the Season
With OTAs concluded, teams now await the start of training camp, where on-field execution will reveal how offseason preparation translates into performance. The Patriots, Jets, Dolphins, and other franchises appear focused on blending veteran experience with emerging talent, emphasizing football IQ, leadership, and adaptability.
Stefon Diggs’ case serves as a reminder that readiness extends beyond physical presence in OTAs, encompassing study, attentiveness, and mental engagement. For the Patriots, this approach offers hope that Diggs and others will enter the season fully prepared to compete at a high level, contributing to their quest for success in 2025.