The New England Patriots‘ joint practice with the Washington Commanders on Wednesday was designed to highlight team readiness and competitive intensity. However, the session began with widespread speculation when Stefon Diggs, the team’s key veteran receiver, was notably absent as warmups started, raising questions about his status.
ESPN analyst Mike Reiss pointed out Diggs’ absence, which quickly sparked a flurry of reactions on X among Patriots fans anxious to follow the progress of the wide receiver’s return from last season’s ACL injury. The lack of prior information fueled online debate, with fans expressing concern and curiosity over the sudden change.
Fan Reactions Reflect Unease and Varied Theories About Diggs’ Absence
The Patriots’ fanbase offered many opinions regarding Diggs’ missing presence during practice. Some users suggested benign reasons, such as rest or giving younger players a chance to shine, while others considered more strategic motives. A few fans expressed apprehension, seeking confirmation about his condition.
One user posted, “Check Five Guys.”
Another wrote, “Not something I’ll worry about, but definitely a point of interest.”
One user posted, “WHERE IS HE”
“Probably a rest day / giving the younger guys a chance to step up,” one user wrote.
Another wrote, “He’s a proven vet I’d rather just rest him and have teams not know abt him.”
Diggs Returns to Practice Under Close Observation
Later in the session, Stefon Diggs appeared, wearing full gear and conducting individual workouts on the sideline alongside a trainer, reports Boston Globe’s Ben Volin. No official update came from head coach Mike Vrabel in advance, suggesting this holdout was not injury-related but possibly a precaution to carefully manage Diggs’ comeback from his prior injury. Throughout training camp, Diggs has been actively contributing alongside rookie quarterback Drake Maye, especially during red zone drills, bolstering a receiving corps that is still evolving around him and DeMario Douglas.
Head Coach Mike Vrabel Injured Amid On-Field Altercation
While attention shifted from Diggs’ absence, the practice intensity remained high, culminating in a heated scuffle during a competitive drill. Coach Mike Vrabel intervened to separate players involved in the fight but ended up with a facial cut from the confrontation, highlighting the intensity and physicality of the session.
“Mike Vrabel is bleeding from his face after diving into a pile to try to prevent a fight. Can’t say I’ve ever seen that before,” Zack Cox of the Boston Herald wrote.
The fight reportedly involved rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson and offensive lineman Will Campbell, who defended his teammate. This incident demonstrated the high tension present as players vie for position and respect in this early preseason phase.
Practice Drama Sets Tone Ahead of Preseason Opener
The Patriots and Commanders are scheduled to meet again at Gillette Stadium on Friday night for their preseason opener. Wednesday’s events underscored a team playing with urgency amid underlying chaos and heightened emotions—a mix that foreshadows a competitive and intense start to the season.