Stefon Diggs couldn't have done much more to leave a positive impression during his Washington Commanders' transition. The veteran wide receiver wanted this homecoming from the moment he was released by the New England Patriots, and he's working exceptionally hard to maximize the opportunity.
Diggs is off to a good start, and his previous credentials need no introduction. But for former quarterback-turned-ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky, the Maryland product brings an intriguing wrinkle that has been completely overlooked amid the hype.
During a conversation with JP Finlay and Washington legend Brian Mitchell on 106.7 The Fan, Orlovsky stated how much he loved the fit between Diggs and the Commanders. The ability to separate is obvious, but the respected analyst also believes that his presence could allow offensive coordinator David Blough to be much more deceptive along the way.
Dan Orlovsky believes Stefon Diggs can make Commanders' offense more deceptive
And if this scenario becomes reality, the team-friendly deal given to Diggs will quickly become a bargain of epic proportions.
"I love the addition from a football perspective of Stefon Diggs. Stef still wins, he can kill you on crossers... I think this offense will be way more deceptive."
There is inside-out versatility with Diggs. He might not be able to stretch the field as often at this late stage of his career, but the Gaithersburg native is a technician in the short-to-intermediate areas of the field.
He must be accounted for on every snap. And even when Diggs doesn't get targeted, his mere presence on the field will free up space for others to work.
That will be a win-win for everybody, especially with the stakes so high for Washington in 2026.
Diggs should still get his numbers; he always does. However, the four-time Pro Bowler has not come to be the top dog, and he knows it.
He wants to be an asset as Washington's complementary piece alongside Terry McLaurin. And as for the downfield threat? Washington has several young stars capable of providing the speed element to the equation.
Stefon Diggs has come to be part of the solution in Washington
The Commanders wanted to take a good look at what they had while also keeping in close contact with Diggs this offseason. Peters eventually decided more was needed, and the deal was done swiftly.
And seeing how well Diggs has been received by those in the building speaks volumes.
McLaurin is the alpha; that is not up for discussion after everything he's meant to the franchise. But the second-team All-Pro now has a legitimate running mate for arguably the first time in his career, though Deebo Samuel Sr. did well in difficult circumstances last season.
Diggs has already won over the locker room. That was always half the battle.
Everyone knew about his on-field prowess, but his willingness to teach and locker-room leadership have been equally impressive. And if Orlovsky's assessment is accurate, Blough will already be conjuring up creative ways to cause untold problems for opposing defenses with Diggs to depend upon.
It's so far, so good for Diggs. He's barely featured in the preseason, but that's by design.
The 11-year pro has nothing to prove. Diggs knows how to turn it on when things matter more, and the Commanders will be expecting precisely that in Week 1 against the Philadelphia Eagles and way beyond.
Orlovsky believes Diggs can unlock something different for the Commanders. Judging by the way he's approached things throughout the summer, it's not hard to see why.
Let's hope it's the start of a fruitful relationship when the regular season arrives.
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