Stefon Diggs facing strangulation, assault charges: What we know

Stefon Diggs has been enjoying an impressive comeback season from a torn ACL, but a concerning off-field issue has clouded it. The New England Patriots wide receiver is facing a charge of felony strangulation or suffocation in addition to misdemeanor assault, according to court documents obtained by USA Today.

The alleged incident took place on December 2 and charges were filed Monday in Dedham County District Court. In a remote appearance at court Tuesday, Diggs’ attorney, Michael DiStefano, requested that details of the incident report remain sealed and argued for the police report to be impounded, according to Boston 25 News.

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"Stefon Diggs categorically denies these allegations. They are unsubstantiated, uncorroborated, and were never investigated — because they did not occur," said David Meier, another one of Diggs' attorneys, per ESPN. "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."

Both the Patriots and the NFL issued statements after news of Diggs' charges broke. The Patriots expressed support for the four-time Pro Bowler, while the NFL simply acknowledged the situation.

"Stefon has informed the organization that he categorically denies the allegations. We support Stefon," the Patriots' statement read, per MassLive. "We will continue to gather information and will cooperate fully with the appropriate authorities and the NFL as necessary. Out of respect for all parties involved, and given that this is an ongoing legal matter, we will have no further comment at this time."

“We are aware of the matter and have been in contact with the club," the NFL's statement read, per Adam Schefter. "We have no further comment at this time.”

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Diggs had been scheduled to be arraigned on January 23, 2026, though the judge said she would consider rescheduling it for March. If the arraignment isn't moved, it would take place two days after the AFC Championship game, which the AFC East leader Patriots could potentially host.

Through 16 games, Diggs has caught 82 passes for 970 yards and four touchdowns. The 32-year-old's veteran presence has helped quarterback Drake Maye ascend into an MVP candidate.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: Stefon Diggs facing charges: NFL, Patriots speak on allegations