New England Patriots executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf provided a cautious update on wide receiver Stefon Diggs on Monday, shortly after head coach Mike Vrabel deflected questions about the player’s availability. The Stefon Diggs Patriots injury update comes as speculation mounts just days before the start of the regular season, with the team balancing optimism and uncertainty.

Wolf Highlights Diggs’ Commitment to Recovery Without Confirming Timeline

According to Doug Kyed of the Boston Herald, Wolf acknowledged Diggs’ dedication during his rehabilitation process following last season’s ACL injury, while stopping short of outlining a clear return date. Wolf emphasized Diggs’ consistent participation in practices as part of the team’s recovery plan led by head athletic trainer Jim Whalen.

“I would say he’s probably done more than I would have expected to this point,” Wolf said. “He’s been a tremendous worker. He’s been out there practicing every time we’ve asked him to. That’s all part of (head athletic trainer) Jim Whalen’s plan for him working forward.”

—Eliot Wolf, Executive Vice President of Player Personnel

This acknowledgment indicates that while Diggs is progressing well, uncertainty remains about when he will be game-ready. The All-Pro receiver‘s impact on the Patriots’ offense keeps fans and analysts closely watching his status.

Diggs’ Preseason Absence and Coaching Decisions Add to Speculation

Diggs did not play in New England’s preseason game against the Minnesota Vikings on Saturday, though he has been medically cleared for contact. The receiver has expressed uncertainty about his availability for Week 1. When pressed on the topic by NBC Sports’ Phil Perry, Coach Vrabel responded skeptically to the reporter’s questioning and admitted he was unsure if Diggs would be on the field when the regular season begins.

Details reported by CBS Sports reveal the decision to keep Diggs out of the preseason opener versus the Washington Commanders was strategic, not injury-related. This coaching move has fueled rumors beyond just health concerns, pointing to off-field matters possibly influencing the current approach to Diggs’ playing time.

Off-Field Issues Fuel Ongoing Questions Around Diggs

Reports suggest the coaching staff’s cautious handling of Diggs might be connected to a boating incident in May, when the receiver was seen partying during voluntary organized team activities (OTAs). Although Wolf’s comments praised Diggs as a diligent contributor, the incident casts a shadow over his standing within the team.

Until the Patriots address these lingering questions openly, the storyline surrounding Diggs’ status—and his readiness for Week 1—may continue to provoke speculation from media and fans alike.

Significance and Outlook for Patriots and Diggs

Stefon Diggs remains a critical figure for New England’s offensive prospects this season. The combination of his recovery progress and off-field circumstances adds complexity to the Patriots’ preparations. With Wolf’s restrained optimism and Vrabel’s guarded stance, the team’s willingness to integrate Diggs in early games will be closely monitored.

The coming weeks will be pivotal as the Patriots finalize their roster approach and assess Diggs’ readiness to contribute effectively. This situation underscores the challenges organizations face when balancing player health, discipline, and performance expectations in a demanding NFL season.