The New England Patriots signed Stefon Diggs last offseason, but his cap hit next season does make him a cut candidate.
Diggs' base salary will increase by $17.7 million, and his cap hit by $17.8 million. He was a 1,000-yard receiver, but his production on the field simply did not justify that price tag, even though he was a very important piece of their offense. That, paired with his off-the-field legal issues, makes him a strong candidate to be released if his contract is not restructured.
If the Patriots lose Diggs, they will need a replacement. They could spend big on a wide receiver, but then risk not being able to spend in other spots. However, there figures to be a budget-friendly receiver, with the talent to be a true No. 1 receiver, hitting the market. Romeo Doubs is "as good as gone" in free agency, according to Green Bay Packers insider Matt Schneidman.
While Doubs is a great player, the Patriots should only sign him if they move on from Diggs. If they can find a way to restructure Diggs' deal, they do not need Doubs. However, he would be a solid replacement for Diggs.
Doubs has been stuck in an offense that simply has too many talented pass catchers. Ever since Davante Adams left, the Packers' offense has not had a true No. 1 option, but not because they lack players with the talent to be a No. 1. Their offense simply revolves around the philosophy of spreading the ball around.
Doubs led the Packers in receiving yards last season, but his overall numbers have taken a hit because of the Packers’ offensive philosophy. He has 2,424 yards in four seasons and 21 touchdowns. He has a 100.3 passer rating when targeted. He also had 371 yards and two touchdowns in four playoff games.
He could thrive in an offense where he is the top option, but his four years in the Packers offense have kept his price tag low. Spotrac projects him to sign a four-year, $48 million deal. That would rank 25th among wide receivers in the league.
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