The energy in the New England Patriots’ locker room shifted on Friday, January 2, 2026, when Stefon Diggs stepped up to the microphone for the first time since his legal troubles became public.
The 32 year old NFL star, who has been a major factor in the team’s postseason push, didn’t shy away from the cameras, but he was clear about keeping his focus on the field while the “life stuff” plays out in court. Diggs appeared somber as he described the recent days as a “very emotional time” for him and his family.
Acknowledging that he has been unavailable to the press lately, Diggs explained that the weight of the situation is something he is managing with the help of his teammates. Because the case is currently active, he was unable to address the specific claims made by his former employee, but he emphasized his commitment to the game and his circle.
“I’m going to continue to be the guy I’ve been. Try to finish the season strong. We all deal with life stuff, family stuff … being a football team is hard. You band together, you lean on your brothers, you lean on your people that you spend the most time with.
The situation stems from a December 2 incident at Diggs’ residence in Dedham, where his live in personal chef alleges that a confrontation over money turned physical.
According to the police report, the woman claims she was arguing with Diggs over unpaid wages for the season when he allegedly struck her and attempted to choke her.
Diggs is officially facing a felony count of strangulation or suffocation alongside a misdemeanor charge of assault and battery.
While these are heavy accusations, the Patriots have publicly stated, “We support Stefon,” and his lawyer, David Meier, has called the claims a total fabrication, “Stefon Diggs categorically denies these allegations. They are unsubstantiated, uncorroborated, and were never investigated because they did not occur. The timing and motivation for making the allegations is crystal clear: they are the direct result of an employee-employer financial dispute that was not resolved to the employee’s satisfaction. Stefon looks forward to establishing the truth in a court of law.
The timing of the legal process couldn’t be more intense for the AFC powerhouse. Diggs is scheduled for his arraignment on January 23, 2026, which lands precisely two days before the AFC Championship Game.
Stefon Diggs speaks for the first time since the allegations. Says it’s been “a very emotional time … taken aback by some things that’s been going on.”
“It’s an open case, so I can’t even say anything about it. But I will be open to any football questions.” @7News pic.twitter.com/rbZnHP3nee
— Marlee Wierda (@marleewierda) January 2, 2026
