Fan-Favorite Patriots WR Stuns After Miracle Recovery

The New England Patriots signed wide receiver Stefon Diggs, a four-time Pro Bowler, to a three-year, $63.5 million contract this offseason. Despite Diggs suffering a torn ACL injury, the team hopes he can return to form for the 2025 NFL season. They view his leadership as crucial for developing young quarterback Drake Maye, aiming for Diggs to reemerge as a top No. 1 receiver.

Early training camp reports showed positive signs. The Boston Herald noted Maye completed 14/15 passes in one practice, with Diggs catching all four of his targets. The Boston Globe reported Diggs took 19 snaps with Maye on the fourth day, resulting in two catches and one drop – his first drop of camp.

Despite the severity of a torn ACL, much public discussion surrounds Diggs' relationship with Cardi B rather than his significant recovery progress, which has flown somewhat under the radar. NFL critics are noted to not fully grasp the remarkable nature of his rehabilitation.

Before his injury in 2024, Diggs played only eight games for the Houston Texans, amassing 496 yards on 47 receptions with three touchdowns – a pace consistent with his expected performance. The Patriots express confidence in the 31-year-old's ability to bounce back in 2025, viewing his current contract as low-risk, high-reward, even amidst trade rumors.

Recovery timelines present challenges. Sports Illustrated reports nine months is the absolute minimum recommended recovery time for athletes; Diggs reaches this exact milestone currently. However, NFL players typically require 10.5 to 12 months on average for full ACL recovery, often longer for wide receivers. Despite being labeled the "riskiest move in the NFL," Diggs received high praise throughout spring for his rehab process. He emphasized the unseen hard work behind his progress, stating his focus is on being "better than before," not just returning to his old form.

Dr. Brian Lau, an expert orthopedic surgeon, highlighted the importance of Diggs regaining confidence in route running and cutting, advocating for a progressive return through solo drills, group drills, scrimmages, and finally games. The article concludes with a sobering statistic: 20% of NFL players who tear their ACLs never play again.