After a dismal 4-13 2024 season, the Patriots are counting on veteran WR Stefon Diggs to ignite their passing game, though he spent the offseason rehabbing a knee. Alongside new head coach Mike Vrabel and a young supporting cast, including QB Drake Maye and recently drafted offensive linemen and RB TreVon Henderson, New England aims to turn its struggling offense around.
Stefon Diggs Week 1 Status
After spending the offseason rehabbing his knee, Stefon Diggs is set to make a substantial impact for the Patriots. When asked about his availability, head coach Vrabel told WEEI: “As of today, he’ll be out there.”
Patriots WR Stefon Diggs (knee) expected to play Week 1 vs. Raiders, per HC Mike Vrabel.
— SleeperNFL (@SleeperNFL) September 2, 2025
“As of today, he’ll be out there.” 👀
(@WEEI) pic.twitter.com/4wSubgQN4t
Signed to a three-year, $63 million deal, Diggs is expected to be a focal point of New England’s passing game. At 31, he remains one of the NFL’s most explosive receivers, with a history of four consecutive 1,000-yard seasons with the Vikings and Bills. His return provides a significant boost for second-year QB Drake Maye, giving the Patriots a rare opportunity to pair a promising young quarterback with a proven veteran weapon.
Patriots Depth Chart
The New England Patriots released their unofficial Week 1 depth chart ahead of Sunday’s season opener against the Raiders, confirming Stefon Diggs as their No. 1 receiver. After spending the offseason rehabbing his knee and sitting out the preseason, Diggs is set to be the primary target for second-year quarterback Drake Maye, bringing much-needed experience and explosiveness to the passing game.
The depth chart also shows a committee approach in the backfield, with TreVeyon Henderson listed as the No. 3 running back behind veterans Rhamondre Stevenson and Antonio Gibson. On defense, training camp standout K’Lavon Chaisson earned the starting edge rusher spot over Keion White, highlighting the Patriots’ emerging young talent.
As New England looks to rebound from a disappointing 4-13 season in 2024, Sunday’s game at Gillette Stadium will give fans their first real look at Mike Vrabel’s team with the “training wheels” off.
