FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs recently addressed a video that went viral, which showed him on a boat with three women. The clip caught the attention of coach Mike Vrabel, who emphasized the importance of making smart choices. Diggs stated he prefers to keep personal matters private and has spoken with Vrabel.
“I want to be open, but I don’t discuss my personal life publicly,” he said during Tuesday’s minicamp. “I had a conversation with Mike and I want everyone to make good decisions.”
In the video, a clear bag appeared to contain an unidentified pink substance, but when asked about it, Diggs chose not to elaborate. He noted that this is an internal issue and repeated that he values discretion regarding personal events.
Reflecting on his football journey, Diggs mentioned he hasn’t participated much in the team’s spring practices. He is still recovering from a torn ACL he suffered last season while playing for the Houston Texans. His surgery was seven months ago, and although he’s eager for the season opener against the Raiders on September 7, he is still in rehabilitation.
“I’m putting in the work,” he said. “I’m ready whenever they decide to push the button. I’m improving, but I have more to achieve.”
Despite his limited participation, Vrabel appreciated Diggs’ energy and the effort he has been putting in. “He’s trying to grasp his role and keep up with drills as he rehabs,” Vrabel noted. “His commitment is evident, and he’s engaged.”
Interestingly, the dynamics around players’ personal lives in sports have been shifting with the influence of social media. Athletes often find themselves in the spotlight, raising questions about privacy. In a recent survey, 78% of players expressed concerns about how their off-field actions might affect public perception.
As fans react on social platforms, it’s clear that moments like these spark conversations, but also provide opportunities for players to discuss their journeys—both personal and professional. The key takeaway here is the balance between responsibility in the public eye and the need for personal privacy, something that will likely remain relevant in the ever-connected world of sports.
For more insights on athlete behavior and public perception, check out this Pew Research report on social media trends.