Stefon Diggs is currently navigating a complex legal landscape as he faces serious felony charges, specifically for felony strangulation and misdemeanor assault and battery, following an alleged incident that occurred on December 2 in Dedham, Massachusetts. The former New England Patriots player has pleaded not guilty to all charges, which are linked to claims made by Mila Adams, his private chef, who alleges that Diggs slapped her and placed her in a headlock.
Before this development, expectations around Diggs were primarily centered on his performance on the field. He had just completed a season where he amassed over 1,000 yards receiving, demonstrating significant recovery from a prior ACL tear, and notably led the Patriots in receptions and targets. However, the situation shifted drastically when the Patriots decided to release him this offseason despite his impressive statistics.
The decisive moment came with the allegations made by Adams, which prompted a response from Diggs’ attorney, Andrew Kettlewell. Kettlewell asserted that there is no evidence supporting the claims of an attack—citing the absence of medical records or video footage. This lack of corroborative evidence may play a crucial role in the upcoming trial.
Key facts surrounding the case:
- Diggs is charged with felony strangulation and misdemeanor assault and battery.
- The alleged incident occurred on December 2.
- He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
- The NFL is monitoring the trial for potential violations of its Personal Conduct Policy.
The repercussions of these legal troubles extend beyond just courtroom proceedings; they directly impact Diggs’ status as a free agent. With his scheduled salary cap cost for 2026 set at 26.5 million, teams may hesitate to sign him amid ongoing legal issues. This uncertainty leaves both Diggs’ future in professional football and his personal reputation hanging in the balance.
Kettlewell emphasized Diggs’ innocence by stating, “Just like any other person in this country rich or poor, Mr. Diggs sits here an innocent man.” Conversely, Adams described the encounter vividly: “When I went up to push him… he took his arm and came around my neck with his elbow around my neck and began to choke me.” Such contrasting narratives highlight the complexities involved in this case.
The outcome of this trial remains uncertain as both sides prepare for what could be a pivotal moment not only for Diggs but also for how allegations against NFL players are addressed moving forward. The next court date will likely shed more light on these serious allegations and their implications for all parties involved.
