Veteran wide receiver Stefon Diggs had a decent showing in his first outing as a Patriot Sunday, and he’s focused on helping along second-year quarterback Drake Maye any way he can.
But the best thing he can do, he said, is simply execute his own job.
“This is the same football we’ve all been playing for a really long time. There’s not a lot of new coverages out there. You’re just moving pieces, different guys in different jersey numbers,” Diggs said at his locker Wednesday. “As far as building that report, just be where you’re supposed to be and you’ll build that as you get open and catch the ball. I feel that’s how you build a report, build a relationship. Just get open and catch it.”
Diggs tallied 57 yards on six catches in Sunday’s 20-13 loss to the Raiders. If he keeps up at least that level of production, he’s on pace for over 900 yards – which would put him head and shoulders above and pass catcher on the Patriots’ last two rosters.
Maye had a less successful day at an individual level, but Diggs doesn’t see much value in harping on the quarterback’s mistakes – even if he’s Teflon.
“As a receiver, you just want to have that open dialogue, especially with a young guy. He can play at a high level. So, just being there for him consistently. I think, a lot of positive reinforcement, rather than ripping a guy, would be helpful,” he said. “So, I think he can take it. He’s a tough guy, too, as well. He’s not a softy, or nothing. I would never say that.
As far as just being there for him, having an open dialogue.”
Diggs would know. He’s worked with multiple young quarterbacks, from Josh Allen in Buffalo, to C.J. Stroud in Houston.
Communication is a point Diggs came back to again and again when discussing what has to change in terms of preparation between Weeks 1 and 2.
“It’s all about the details, as far as communication during the week before you get to the game so you’re prepared for anything that could happen out there. I just feel like taking that next step is going to be crucial,” he told WEEI.
Regarding his health, Diggs said his first week back went smoothly, and he’s bouncing back well ahead of Week 2 against the Miami Dolphins.
“It felt good. I actually missed the contact portion of it, as far as getting hit a little bit. I look forward to getting back out there.”
“It’s going to be a lot of fun,” he added.