When Stefon Diggs was released by the New England Patriots after just one season, he probably felt a little bit aggrieved. After all, the prolific wide receiver helped the club reach the Super Bowl, going over 1,000 receiving yards while also becoming a highly influential presence for quarterback Drake Maye to rely on.
Their loss was the Washington Commanders' gain. And after a disastrous first contest in more ways than one, it showed how much the Patriots could miss Diggs this season.
The Patriots couldn't get anything going offensively against the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks. They won't be alone in that regard this season, but it was still immensely disappointing.
Patriots could regret gift-wrapping Stefon Diggs to the Commanders
Maye looked like a shell of the NFL MVP candidate who took the league by storm last year. Poor decisions, a lack of timing with his pass-catchers, and with Diggs no longer around, there was no longer a dependable security blanket in key situations.
To make things worse, Pro Bowl wide receiver A.J. Brown sustained a high ankle sprain and is expected to miss time. And given how Romeo Doubs failed to make any sort of impact in a disastrous debut, it's not hard to see where the problems could arise.
That is not Diggs's concern, though he may be cracking a wry smile at the current state of affairs in New England after the organization decided it would be better off without the four-time Pro Bowler.
Of course, Diggs has more pressing priorities.
Stefon Diggs is focused on his future with the Commanders, not the past
He always wanted a homecoming for Washington, and Diggs got his wish. The former Maryland playmaker slotted in seamlessly, embracing the scheme and locker room culture, and enhancing his chemistry with quarterback Jayden Daniels. Everyone knows how talented he is, but it's clear some were taken aback by his willingness to lead and motivate.
That doesn't align with the stigma that's followed Diggs throughout his career. But it will only help Washington.
Diggs knows he doesn't have many good years left. He is an elder statesman, bringing a fresh perspective on football and life. He also fully believes in the Commanders' plans this season, and the wideout will strive with everything he has to become an important piece of the offensive puzzle under first-time coordinator David Blough.
The wideout didn't have to join Washington. Other teams were ready, but Diggs and general manager Adam Peters stayed in contact throughout the offseason.
When the time was right, they made a deal. And given the money involved, he has the scope to vastly outperform his pay grade.
If that happens, there might be a few in the Patriots franchise and even more across their fan base wondering why Diggs was made surplus to requirements.
It's still early. Overreactions are plentiful after Week 1, but there is a long way to go and a lot of football left.
But if the same trend continues in New England and Diggs thrives in Washington, there will be only one winner.
Time will tell on all fronts...
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