NFL star Stefon Diggs is facing serious legal trouble just weeks before the playoffs, and the timing could not be worse.
According to court documents, Diggs has been charged with felony strangulation or suffocation along with misdemeanor assault and battery stemming from an alleged incident that took place on Tuesday, December 2. The incident reportedly occurred just one day after the Monday Night Football matchup in which the New England Patriots dominated the New York Giants.
The case is now moving through the Massachusetts court system.
Attorney Tries to Seal Police Report
On Tuesday, Diggs’ attorney Michael DiStefano made a remote appearance in Dedham District Court, where he requested that the police report be impounded.
DiStefano argued that the details of the alleged incident should remain sealed and not be made public. The judge said she would take the request under advisement and issue a ruling shortly.
But that was not the most eye opening moment of the hearing.
Settlement Offer Revealed in Open Court
During the court appearance, Diggs’ attorney disclosed that the NFL wide receiver has already made a financial offerto the alleged victim in an attempt to resolve the dispute.
“As we speak, they’re working to come to an agreement on that,” DiStefano told the court.
That admission immediately raised eyebrows, especially given the severity of the charges.
Arraignment Set Days Before AFC Championship
Diggs is scheduled to be formally arraigned on Friday, January 23, just two days before the AFC Championship game is set to be played.
The timing puts both Diggs and the Patriots organization in an uncomfortable spotlight during one of the most critical stretches of the NFL season.
New England recently clinched its first AFC East division title since 2019 and remains in contention for a first round playoff bye. That would require a Week 18 win over the Miami Dolphins and a loss by the Denver Broncos.
Strong Season Now Overshadowed
On the field, Diggs has been productive. In 17 games this season, he recorded:
- 82 receptions
- 970 receiving yards
- 4 touchdowns
But off the field, this case now threatens to overshadow everything.
What Happens Next
At this point, all allegations remain unproven, and Diggs has not entered a plea. The judge’s decision on whether to seal the police report could determine how much the public ultimately learns about the alleged incident.
Still, between the felony charge, the attempted financial resolution, and the playoff timing, this situation is already shaping up to be one of the most explosive NFL legal stories of the season.
For Stefon Diggs, the next few weeks could define far more than just his postseason run.