Cardi B’s ex-boyfriend, Stefon Diggs, is set to part ways with the New England Patriots after just one season, marking a sudden turn in the career of the star receiver who recently made headlines both on and off the field.
The decision, expected to become official when the new National Football League league year begins on March 11, 2026, will free up more than $16 million in salary-cap space for New England.
Diggs joined the Patriots ahead of the 2025 season after signing a three-year, $69 million deal. During his lone season with the team, the veteran receiver quickly became a central figure in the offense. He recorded 85 receptions for 1,013 yards and four touchdowns, helping power the Patriots to a strong season that culminated in an appearance in Super Bowl LX. The game marked the first Super Bowl appearance of Diggs’ career.
Despite the productive year, reports indicate the team’s decision to release Diggs is largely tied to financial and roster considerations. By making the move before certain money in his contract becomes guaranteed, the Patriots will create significant flexibility under the salary cap.
The timing of Diggs’ release also coincides with his pending legal issues stemming from an alleged incident in Massachusetts in late 2025. In February 2026, Diggs pleaded not guilty to felony strangulation and misdemeanor assault charges connected to an alleged dispute with his former personal chef in December 2025. Diggs and his attorneys have denied the allegations, describing the situation as a financial dispute. The case remains ongoing, with a pre-trial hearing scheduled for April 1, 2026.
Following reports of the Patriots’ decision, Diggs addressed the situation publicly on social media, choosing to reflect on his time with the team in a positive light. He thanked the organization for the season and expressed appreciation for the experience he shared with teammates in New England.
Off the field, Diggs has also been in the spotlight because of his past relationship with rapper Cardi B. The couple dated for about a year before reportedly splitting just before Super Bowl LX in February 2026. The breakup followed the birth of their son in November 2025 and was reportedly linked to tensions in the relationship, with sources describing the situation as increasingly heated and complicated.
As the new league year approaches, Diggs’ departure from New England marks the end of a brief but productive chapter with the Patriots, leaving questions about where the veteran receiver’s career will go next.
