A significant legal development concerning New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs is set to have major implications for the team's postseason campaign.
Charges and Postponement
Stefon Diggs, 32, faces serious charges of felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery. The allegations stem from an incident on December 2nd at his residence in Dedham, a Boston suburb, involving his personal chef. Despite the ongoing case, a fresh update confirms Diggs' arraignment has been postponed.
According to The Boston Globe, the delay was granted due to a 'previously scheduled professional commitment'. His new arraignment is now scheduled for February 13th, which is five days after Super Bowl LX on February 8th.
Details of the Alleged Incident
The accuser, a chef employed by Diggs from late July through the NFL season, told police the altercation began over a financial dispute. She claimed payments became irregular and that she was owed a month's wages. The situation allegedly escalated on December 2nd.
In a police report seen by the Daily Mail, she stated Diggs entered her unlocked bedroom, grabbed her from behind and 'tried to choke her using the crook of his elbow around her neck.' She feared she 'could have blacked out' before being thrown onto a bed. The accuser initially hesitated to identify Diggs 'due to his fame' but formally pressed charges a week after her initial police report on December 16th.
Following the alleged assault, she left her position. Upon returning for her property on December 9th, she claims Diggs directed her to his assistant, who requested she sign a non-disclosure agreement before receiving owed payment, which she refused.
Impact on the Patriots and Diggs' Denial
The postponement is crucial for the New England Patriots' playoff hopes, as it means Diggs will be available for all postseason games. It also likely allows him to avoid placement on the NFL Commissioner's Exempt List, a form of paid leave for players in unique legal circumstances.
Through the Patriots organisation, Diggs has 'categorically denied' the allegations. A team statement provided to the Daily Mail read: 'Stefon has informed the organisation that he categorically denies the allegations. We support Stefon. We will continue to gather information and will cooperate fully with the appropriate authorities and the NFL as necessary.'
This is not the only controversy surrounding Diggs in 2025. He has also been involved in a separate legal dispute with social media influencer Chris Blake Griffith, who made serious allegations against him, leading to a defamation lawsuit and counterclaim.
The Patriots and their fans will now watch as their star receiver takes to the field for the playoffs, with his legal fate set to be determined well after the season concludes.
