Mike Vrabel, the head coach of the Patriots, would not elaborate on why wide receiver Stefon Diggs did not play in Friday’s preseason opener against the Commanders.
On WEEI’s The Greg Hill Show on Monday morning, Vrabel was questioned about if Diggs’ lack of action was due to his health.
All Vrabel could do was support Coach’s choice.
Related Articles
-
Patriots kickers locked in competitive roster battle as cutdown day looms
-
Lucas: Josh Kraft should play the Patriots card
-
Patriots training camp Day 14 takeaways: Mike Vrabel leads prep for Vikings amid offensive woes
-
Mike Vrabel provides injury updates on key Patriots players
-
Patriots rookie Will Campbell assesses performance from preseason debut
Diggs did not suit up during warmups or sit on the bench during Friday’s preseason game, but he was on the sidelines. Despite recuperating from an ACL tear sustained in October, Diggs has been a full participant in practice for the majority of the summer. For unknown circumstances, he did not participate in the first half of Wednesday’s joint exercise with the Commanders.
Despite having a strong start to training camp, the seasoned wide receiver has been silent in more recent sessions.
On Monday, wide receivers coach Todd Downing stated of Diggs, “I believe where he’s at in his process right now is where we want him to be.” When he’s out there with his reps and you see him making some plays, you know he’s working hard. His realization that we cannot conflate method and results is crucial. Therefore, it doesn’t mean he didn’t perform his duties and get open if he doesn’t have a lot of production on a given day. He will need to become familiar with this scheme, understand exactly what Josh (McDaniels) and the quarterback are looking for, and make sure he is in the right place at the right time as he continues to hone that. I believe he will continue on the path we anticipate.
Diggs has undoubtedly had a lot of catches this summer, but more standout plays have come from wide receivers like Kayshon Boutte, Mack Hollins, DeMario Douglas, and Efton Chism.
On Wednesday and Thursday, the Patriots will rehearse in Minnesota against Diggs’ former team, the Vikings.
