Stefon Diggs to Patriots Forces Dolphins Into Obvious Next Move

The AFC East just got a whole lot more interesting with the New England Patriots signing Pro Bowl receiver Stefon Diggs. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Diggs got a 3 year deal for up to 69 million, 26 million guaranteed. His return to the division—where he previously tormented defenses as a Buffalo Bill—adds another layer of fun to an already loaded AFC East.

For the Miami Dolphins, this means they need to address their cornerback situation ASAP. With Diggs now on a division rival, GM Chris Grier is under the gun to find a starting corner who can hold their own opposite Jalen Ramsey.

Diggs Returns to the AFC East: A New Challenge for Miami

Stefon Diggs was once the most feared receiver in the NFL, big play and clutch. But his time with the Buffalo Bills was the start of the decline that led to his departure. After a season with the Houston Texans last year, he suffered a season ending knee injury and now questions about his current form.

Despite all that, Diggs is still a weapon on the field. His presence alone demands attention from the defense, he’s a valuable asset to any team. For the Patriots, who have gone through a lot of changes this offseason Diggs is a big piece of the puzzle to get out of the AFC East basement.

But integrating Diggs into the Patriots system will take time. They’ve made a lot of big moves, but it’s unclear if they’ll have it all clicking by 2025.

Dolphins Cornerback Crisis: Who Steps Up?

With Diggs joining the Patriots, the Dolphins’ secondary issues are even more pronounced. Miami needs a reliable starting cornerback to go with Jalen Ramsey. Unfortunately the current options are a mess.

Storm Duck and Cam Smith: Not Ready for Prime Time

Storm Duck showed flashes as an undrafted rookie last year but he’s far from ready to handle boundary duties full time. Cam Smith a 2nd round pick 2 years ago has yet to make an impact. Despite being given opportunities he has yet to live up to his draft status.

Artie Burns: A Solid Addition But Questions Remain

The Dolphins did sign former 1st round pick Artie Burns this offseason which adds competition to the cornerback room. But Burns has battled injuries his whole career and has never played a full season. While his experience is valuable relying on him as a long term solution is a risk.

Miami’s Options Moving Forward

Now that Diggs is in the division, the Dolphins can’t wait any longer to address their cornerback situation. Here are two options:

1. Free Agency

Veteran cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. is still unsigned and would be a great fit for Miami. He’s a ball-hawker and physical player who would bring stability and leadership to the secondary. He’d take pressure off Ramsey and help contain Diggs.

2. Draft a Cornerback

If the Dolphins want to build through the draft, they need to take a top corner in the early rounds. This year’s draft has several prospects who can play right away. Pairing a rookie with Ramsey would lock up the unit for years to come.

Why the Clock Is Ticking for Chris Grier?

Dolphins GM Chris Grier has to get this right. With Josh Allen and the Bills in the division, the Patriots’ new offense with Diggs and the always-hazardous Jets, Miami can’t fall behind. Without a second cornerback they can trust, they’ll get exposed every time they face a top passing attack.

The Patriots signing Diggs is a clear message: they’re all in to get out of the AFC East basement. If the Dolphins don’t respond in kind, they’ll be left behind in what’s going to be one of the toughest divisions in football.