Two key players for the New England Patriots, Stefon Diggs and Christian Barmore, found themselves at the centre of off-field controversy this Friday as they both declined to comment in detail on separate criminal charges they are facing.
Stefon Diggs Denies Felony Allegations
Stefon Diggs, the high-profile wide receiver and partner of rapper Cardi B, is confronting serious legal issues. He stands accused of felony strangulation or suffocation, alongside a misdemeanour charge of assault and battery. The allegations stem from an incident reportedly involving his personal chef.
Through an official statement released by the New England Patriots organisation, Diggs has "categorically denied" the claims made against him. When approached by reporters, including Mark Daniels of MassLive.com, Diggs acknowledged the situation was an "open case" but offered little else, stating, "Dealing with the everything - it’s definitely an open case so I can’t even say anything about it."
Christian Barmore Focused on Football
Meanwhile, defensive tackle Christian Barmore is also embroiled in legal proceedings. Barmore is scheduled to be arraigned in February on allegations of assault and battery on a family or household member.
When questioned about the accusations in the locker room on Friday, Barmore repeatedly shut down the line of inquiry. According to Mark Daniels, Barmore stated twice, "I'm focused on Miami. Just play football," directing all attention to the Patriots' upcoming Sunday game against the Miami Dolphins.
Impact and Next Steps
The dual legal situations present a significant distraction for the New England Patriots as they prepare for a critical fixture. Both players have chosen to defer detailed public comment, citing the ongoing nature of their respective cases.
For Diggs, the next steps involve navigating the serious felony charge he firmly denies. For Barmore, his court date in February looms. In the immediate term, however, the team's public focus remains squarely on the field and the challenge posed by the Miami Dolphins this weekend.
