Preparing for the upcoming season is the focus in many locker rooms throughout the NFL. It begins with preparation during off-season workouts and eventually leads to participation in mandatory minicamps.
Attendance is mandatory and is essential to building chemistry. Sean McDermott’s unit intends to make the most of their time. They need all hands all deck if they plan to clinch another division title. That includes Stefon Diggs.
Buffalo Bills: An unfavorable finish led to a long off-season
A disappointing loss in the divisional round of the playoffs haunted the Bills’ coaching staff during the off-season. Joe Burrow and the Bengals defeated the Bills on their home turf by 17 points. Lou Anarumo’s defense limited the Bills’ offense to ten points – denying Josh Allen access to the endzone. Eli Apple, Mike Hilton, and Tre Flowers defended Buffalo’s receivers well. They limited big plays and kept Stefon Diggs quiet throughout the evening.
An off-game did not sit well with Buffalo’s nine-year veteran. He earned his reputation by executing in clutch situations. Diggs failed to do so when his team needed it the most. It was the most important game of the season, and Buffalo’s best receiver recorded four receptions on eight targets. His 35 yards receiving was his lowest total of the season. It played a factor in the loss, regardless of fault.
Differences in opinion caused division on the gridiron during Buffalo’s post-season. Struggles on the field led to arguments on the sideline. A quarrel between Stefon Diggs and Josh Allen was broadcasted on numerous networks. It was obvious there was a disagreement, but would it hinder success moving forward?
Buffalo Bills: Stefon Diggs is focused on helping his team win a championship
It’s been a few months since the heated conversation. Tensions between the teammates were extinguished, and they’re eager for the 23′ campaign. Speculation from the media led fans to believe there was a sequel to the disagreement log after the divisional loss.
Diggs’ absence on the first day of the minicamp added fuel to the fire. Reports from the Boston Globe blamed playcalling as the catalyst for a missing receiver in action. A press conference with Buffalo’s starting quarterback quickly changed the narrative. He praised his favorite target and even took accountability for his part in last year’s blunders. “There are things I can do better, and getting Diggs the ball certainly would not hurt” reported NFL Insider Ian Rapoport. “This thing does not work without Diggs” stated Allen as he reassured reporters.
Update: Josh Allen addressed the media concerning rumors centered around Stefon Diggs’ absence during the #NFL Mandatory Minicamps. He took accountability for missed opportunities last season & reiterated Diggs’ impact on the team.
— Loyal Ricks Jr. (@LoyalJRicksJr) June 22, 2023
“There are things I can do better to get Diggs… pic.twitter.com/aREDi3DxX6
Stefon Diggs has an important role in Sean McDermott’s scheme. He is a productive receiver with a voice in the locker room. In 2022, Diggs ranked fourth in targets (149) and third in receptions (108). He scored 11 touchdowns and earned the second-highest offensive rating (89.1) on the roster.
Competition in the AFC East has grown exponentially this off-season. Trades and a busy free-agency period helped owners improve rosters. Ball clubs are improving, which means Buffalo has to bring their best. Stefon Diggs is vital to success and will shine in the upcoming season.