Stefon Diggs' legal troubles have cast a shadow over the New England Patriots' recent success. The star wide receiver, a key player in the team's playoff run and AFC East victory, now faces criminal charges stemming from an alleged incident earlier this month. But here's where it gets controversial... The charges, including felony strangulation or suffocation, misdemeanor assault, and battery, have raised questions about the potential impact on Diggs' career and the team's future. What comes next for the Patriots' leading receiver? Let's delve into the legal and professional outlooks, and explore the possible consequences for Diggs and the team. Legal Outlook: After Tuesday's hearing, Diggs knows his next court date is scheduled for Friday, January 23rd, just two days before the AFC Championship Game. At the arraignment, the charges will be read, and Diggs will be asked to plead guilty or not guilty. Given his denial of the allegations, he is expected to plead 'not guilty'. From there, the legal process will unfold, potentially taking weeks or even months. However, agreements between the parties involved could alter the course of the case. For instance, a financial settlement might be reached, leading to the dismissal of civil claims against Diggs, which could potentially impact the prosecution's outcome. Professional Outlook: The NFL's personal conduct policy sets a different threshold for discipline against Diggs. Commissioner Roger Goodell will judge whether the alleged actions fall under 'irresponsible' or 'dangerous' conduct. If Goodell finds a violation, Diggs could face a league investigation and/or be placed on the commissioner's exempt list. The Patriots have experience with both. In the past, the team faced massive fines for Spygate and Deflategate, and last year, safety Jabrill Peppers spent eight games on the exempt list after an arrest on charges including strangulation and drug possession. If Goodell believes Diggs violated the policy, he has the authority to remove him from the active roster, allowing Diggs to remain on the team's payroll but preventing him from practicing or playing in games. This decision is not tied to legal proceedings, and Goodell could act immediately. For the Patriots, who are set to play in the postseason, this would be a significant loss, especially after already losing Mack Hollins to an abdomen injury. The team's wide receiver depth would take a further hit, leaving them in a challenging position as they prepare for the upcoming games.
