The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">New England Patriots</a> have made a bold move by releasing veteran wide receiver Stefon Diggs, signaling a willingness to shake up their roster ahead of the offseason. 



This move has sparked speculation that the Patriots could target younger options like Alec Pierce as part of a broader strategy to balance talent and long-term flexibility.



According to a report from Jordan Schultz, Mike Vrabel and the Patriots are actively evaluating key names on the wide receiver market. “Per sources, the Patriots have been in on the big names on the WR free-agent market next week and are believed to be prepared to spend big. Alec Pierce is among the names they’ve been eyeing. The trade market is also an option.”



<h2>Did the Patriots release Stefon Diggs?</h2>



Yes. The Patriots released Stefon Diggs, parting ways with the veteran wide receiver in a move that opens up both salary cap space and opportunities to retool their receiving corps ahead of the upcoming free‑agent period.


 

 


For the Patriots, the release of Diggs represents both a challenge and an opportunity. While losing a top-tier receiver is significant, targeting someone like Alec Pierce could provide a cost-effective, high-upside solution. Also, controversies off the field could have been a factor.



Now, combined with flexibility in the trade market and the salary cap, New England’s front office appears ready to take aggressive steps to make another <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> run.

Stefon Diggs is released by Patriots and could be replaced soon by another star wide receiver in 2026

Patriots releasing Stefon Diggs creates opportunity for NY Giants, Chiefs: Which other teams could want the WR?

Stefon Diggs breaks silence on Patriots release before free agency

Stefon Diggs is released by Patriots and could be replaced soon by another star wide receiver in 2026 - Bolavip US

miniaturas

The New England Patriots informed four-time Pro Bowl wide receiver <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stefon-diggs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stefon Diggs</a> of his release on Wednesday. Coming off a disappointing 29-13 loss to the Seahawks in Super Bowl LX, the Patriots front office appears intent on an aggressive roster reset, with Diggs becoming one of the major cap casualties of the new league year.



Shortly after news of the transaction broke, Diggs took to social media to reflect on his lone season in New England. “Thank you for a hell of a year. We family forever,” Diggs shared via his Instagram account, marking a graceful exit despite a tumultuous few weeks of speculation regarding his fit within Mike Vrabel’s long-term plans.



The release of Diggs appears to be the first domino to fall in a broader <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Patriots</a> roster reset. New England’s front office is aggressively clearing cap space to retool a squad that struggled to find its offensive rhythm on the game’s biggest stage.



The move leaves a significant void on <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/patriots-release-stefon-diggs-wr-depth-chart-updated-in-new-england" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the Patriots WR depth chart.</a> With Diggs gone, the focus shifts to internal solutions like Kayshon Boutte and Mack Hollins, though the team is widely expected to be active in free agency and the draft to find a true WR1 for Drake Maye’s third season.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/02/09121245/stefon-diggs-2-1920x1080.webp" alt="Stefon Diggs" class="wp-image-576976"></figure><figcaption>Stefon Diggs #8 of the New England Patriots.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Finding a potential home for the veteran wideout</h2>



While it’s early in the free agency cycle, the 32-year-old Diggs enters a market already buzzing with high-stakes movement. Different contenders who have cleared roster spots or draft capital in recent days could view the four-time Pro Bowler as the missing piece for a 2026 title run.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/new-england-patriots-cap-space-in-2026"></div>


<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/patriots-releasing-stefon-diggs-creates-opportunity-for-ny-giants-chiefs-which-other-teams-could-want-the-wr" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Kansas City Chiefs are seen as a logical suitor for Diggs, as well as the New York Giants</a> which are still desperate for a veteran boundary threat, and remain a team to watch as the Giants look to upgrade their pass-catching corps.



As the legal tampering period approaches, Diggs has the luxury of being a “vested veteran” who can sign immediately. Entering his 12th NFL season, the veteran wideout now has the opportunity to choose his next destination as he seeks the elusive Super Bowl ring that slipped through his fingers in Foxborough.

Stefon Diggs breaks silence on Patriots release before free agency - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New England Patriots</a> have made a key roster move. On Wednesday, the AFC East club released Stefon Diggs, creating a massive change in the receiving corps that Drake Maye has at his disposal.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stefon-diggs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stefon Diggs</a> will now have to find another team to play for in 2026. On Wednesday, Tom Pelissero reported that New England will release the wide receiver, who failed to win his first Super Bowl after losing to the Seattle Seahawks in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Super Bowl</a> LX.



Without Diggs, the team’s depth chart has been updated. Kayshon Boutte is now projected as the WR1, followed by Mack Hollins, Kyle Williams, DeMario Douglas, Jeremiah Webb, and John Jiles. However, the Patriots are expected to add another top wide receiver to fill the void left by Diggs.



<h2>What’s next for Stefon Diggs?</h2>



Stefon Diggs will be playing for a new team in the 2026 NFL season. The Patriots are set to release him at the start of the league’s new year, officially making him a free agent eligible to sign anywhere for the upcoming campaign.



The talented wide receiver put together a solid 2025 season, emerging as a key target for Drake Maye. For that reason, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/patriots-releasing-stefon-diggs-creates-opportunity-for-ny-giants-chiefs-which-other-teams-could-want-the-wr" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diggs’ release could create an opportunity for teams like the New York Giants or the Kansas City Chiefs</a> to pursue a proven playmaker ahead of next season.



The former Buffalo Bills standout is expected to draw significant interest in free agency. However, it appears he may have preferred to remain in New England, as he <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/stefon-diggs-breaks-silence-on-patriots-release-before-free-agency" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">broke his silence following the Patriots’ decision to release him</a> with a sentimental message.


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Patriots release Stefon Diggs: WR depth chart updated in New England

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Patriots reward Drake Maye’s key teammate with major incentive despite missed 2025 bonus

Patriots release Stefon Diggs: WR depth chart updated in New England - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/stefon-diggs-breaks-silence-on-patriots-release-before-free-agency">New England Patriots are releasing Stefon Diggs, who confirmed the report from NFL media by breaking his silence</a> with an Instagram story. This creates a huge opportunity for the New York Giants and Kansas City Chiefs in free agency.



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-york-giants">Giants</a> could use a boost to their WR room in 2026 as Jaxson Dart enters his second year in the league, whereas the Chiefs definitely need to retool their offense around Patrick Mahomes after a disappointing season.



Diggs, who turns 33 in November, is a proven weapon in the league who still has enough left in the tank to contribute on a team with aspirations. However, the Giants and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs">Chiefs</a> might not be alone in his sweepstakes.



<h2>Potential suitors for Diggs apart from NY Giants and Chiefs</h2>



The Denver Broncos could benefit from a pass catcher with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stefon-diggs">Diggs</a>‘ experience to build on a promising 2025 campaign. Another potential suitor could be the Miami Dolphins, who recently released Tyreek Hill and could welcome new veteran presence in their WR group.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/04155044/stefon-diggs-wr-1920x1080.webp" alt="Stefon Diggs at a press conference." class="wp-image-591438"></figure><figcaption>Stefon Diggs at a press conference.</figcaption></figure>



However, a return to the Buffalo Bills could also make sense. Diggs is already familiar with playing alongside Josh Allen, and it’s an area where the team struggled to find a dependable target last year.


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Other teams to watch might be the Pittsburgh Steelers, who lacked an established WR2 behind DK Metcalf, or the San Francisco 49ers, who are expected to add at wide receiver this offseason.



<h2>Diggs’ 2025 season in New England</h2>



Diggs is coming off a productive season where he caught 85 passes for 1,013 yards and four touchdowns with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">Patriots</a>, who made an unexpected run to Super Bowl LX. Only a month after the loss to the Seattle Seahawks at Levi’s Stadium, the wideout will be looking for a new home as the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/patriots-release-stefon-diggs-wr-depth-chart-updated-in-new-england">Patriots WR depth chart will look different in 2026</a>.

Patriots releasing Stefon Diggs creates opportunity for NY Giants, Chiefs: Which other teams may want the WR?

Patriots releasing Stefon Diggs creates opportunity for NY Giants, Chiefs: Which other teams may want the WR? - Bolavip US

Diggs release creates opportunity for NY Giants, Chiefs: Which other teams may want the WR?

destacadas

The 2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> league year brings another financial reset, and for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">New England Patriots</a>, the salary cap picture is anything but simple. A rising league limit offers opportunity, but past commitments still cast a long shadow over the books.



Payroll allocations tell part of the story. Veteran contracts, recent signings and prorated bonuses combine to shape a cap structure that reflects both urgency and patience. Every dollar tied to the roster hints at a broader roster-building philosophy.



Then there’s the matter of dead money and flexibility. Charges from previous decisions linger, subtly influencing how aggressively the front office can operate. In a league defined by margins, financial maneuverability may prove just as decisive as talent.



<h2>How much is the Patriots’ cap space in 2026?</h2>



For the 2026 NFL season, New England is positioned with meaningful cap flexibility, at least on paper. The Patriots enter the year with roughly $35.26 million in Top-51 cap space, placing them around 11th in the league in off-season room to maneuver, as Spotrac reported.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/03/04110952/New-England-Patriots-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-590948"></figure><figcaption>Craig Woodson #31 of the New England Patriots at the Super Bowl LX (Source: Chris Graythen/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



That figure, the amount of space available after accounting for the 51 highest cap hits on the roster, gives a clearer picture of how much they can actually use for signings and roster moves before free agency begins.



Total cap liabilities, including prorated bonuses and active roster charges, push New England’s overall cap commitments to about $322.2 million, against the projected league limit of around $301.2 million for 2026.



One notable piece of the Patriots’ cap puzzle is dead money, the charges that count against the cap for players no longer actively contributing to the roster. Spotrac lists their dead cap at about $21.36 million.



The makeup of that cap space is shaped by a mix of contracts and roster decisions from previous seasons. High cap hits for veterans like Milton Williams and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stefon-diggs">Stefon Diggs</a> contribute to their committed payroll, while extensions or restructures could free up additional dollars ahead of the season.

New England Patriots salary cap in 2026: Payroll, dead money and flexibility

New England Patriots salary cap in 2026: Payroll, dead money and flexibility - Bolavip US

Now that the 2025 NFL season has ended, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New England Patriots</a> are reviewing their roster and have rewarded one of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/drake-maye" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Drake Maye</a>’s key teammates with a bonus incentive he narrowly missed in 2025.



During the 2025 season, Mack Hollins became an important part of Drake Maye’s offense. Unfortunately, he missed the final two regular-season games due to a lacerated spleen suffered in December, which impacted his final statistics.



Hollins had 46 receptions before suffering the injury and needed just four more to secure a significant bonus. Despite falling short of that mark, the Patriots chose to recognize his performance by awarding him the incentive anyway.



<h2>Mack Hollins secures $400,000 incentive despite not reaching reception mark</h2>



When Hollins signed his contract with the Patriots in 2025, it included a $400,000 incentive if he reached 50 receptions during the regular season. He finished with 46, but New England still granted him the bonus.



On Friday, the Patriots restructured Hollins’ contract by converting that $400,000 into a signing bonus. The organization believes he likely would have surpassed the 50-catch threshold had he not suffered the injury and wanted to reward his effort throughout the season.



Hollins returned for the postseason and played a key role in helping the Patriots reach <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Super Bowl</a> LX. For that reason, the team believes the move reflects both his impact and his value heading into 2026.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/former-super-bowl-champion-with-patrick-mahomes-chiefs-gives-key-advice-to-drake-maye-patriots-after-loss-vs-seahawks"></div>


<h2>New England has built a formidable offense around Drake Maye</h2>



Drake Maye showed significant improvement in 2025, thanks in large part to the front office strengthening the roster around him. The offense looks promising, and expectations are high for the upcoming season.



Stefon Diggs, Kayshon Boutte, Mack Hollins, TreVeyon Henderson, and Hunter Henry are the primary weapons at Maye’s disposal, giving fans reason to believe the Patriots could make another deep postseason run in the upcoming campaign.

Mike Vrabel sends clear message to Drake Maye, Patriots ahead of next NFL season

Patriots star gets real on Mike Vrabel’s impact on his growth as a player

Patriots reward Drake Maye’s key teammate with major incentive despite missed 2025 bonus - Bolavip US

A few days have passed since the New England Patriots’ defeat in the last <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> against the Seattle Seahawks, and analyses continue to be the order of the day. Among them is what lies ahead for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/drake-maye">Drake Maye</a> and his team—a challenge that a former teammate of Patrick Mahomes in the Kansas City Chiefs knows well how to handle.



At the beginning of 2021, Chiefs Kingdom suffered a crushing defeat against Tom Brady’s Buccaneers in Super Bowl LV, in what was a clear display of defensive dominance over <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/patrick-mahomes">Mahomes</a>. In response, Tyrann Mathieu quickly revealed the path the franchise chose to take from that point on—an approach that, according to the safety, the Pats should emulate.



“New England should take sort of the Kansas City Chiefs approach. After we lost [the Super Bowl]… the very next day, they got new offensive linemen… You gotta be able to protect the product.”



The words of the three-time Pro Bowler naturally come in the wake of what were perhaps somewhat excessive criticisms of rookie Will Campbell, who was the main target of the loss. For this reason, Mathieu emphasizes that the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">Patriots</a> must act quickly to better protect their QB.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Tyrann Mathieu’s thoughts on the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Patriots?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Patriots</a> Super Bowl loss: “New England should take sort of the Kansas City Chiefs approach. After we lost [the Super Bowl]… the very next day, they got new offensive linemen… You gotta be able to protect the product.” (🎥 <a href="https://twitter.com/InTheBayouPod?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@InTheBayouPod</a>) <a href="https://t.co/W8bIB1kAJE">pic.twitter.com/W8bIB1kAJE</a>— Carlos A. Lopez (@LosTalksPats) <a href="https://twitter.com/LosTalksPats/status/2023430666436903305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2026</a></blockquote></div> 



<h2>Wins and losses for Mathieu</h2>



Tyrann Mathieu has appeared in two Super Bowls, winning Super Bowl LIV with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs">Kansas City Chiefs</a> and falling short in Super Bowl LV the following year. Known as “The Honey Badger,” his defensive leadership was instrumental in the Chiefs’ 2020 comeback victory against the 49ers, though he couldn’t repeat the feat against Tom Brady’s Buccaneers in 2021.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/mike-vrabel-reveals-final-decision-with-will-campbell-after-patriots-super-bowl-loss-to-seahawks"></div>


<h2>Patriots looking to learn from their loss</h2>



Following their Super Bowl LX appearance, the New England Patriots are expected to prioritize Drake Maye’s protection this offseason after he was sacked an NFL-record 21 times during the 2025 playoffs. 



To shore up the offensive line, the front office will likely use their first-round pick (No. 31) on high-end tackle prospects like Monroe Freeling or Caleb Lomu, while also exploring free agency for a veteran guard to stabilize the interior. 



Despite the emergence of young left tackle Will Campbell, head coach <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-vrabel">Mike Vrabel</a> is looking for “bookend” support and depth to ensure Maye remains healthy and productive for the 2026 campaign.

Former Super Bowl champion with Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs gives key advice to Drake Maye, Patriots after loss vs Seahawks - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New England Patriots</a> might have lost the Super Bowl but that doesn’t mean the team didn’t find any silver linings. In fact, one of the best players on the roster revealed that head coach Mike Vrabel is helping him grow in incredible ways.



Cornerback Christian Gonzalez was chosen to be one of the Patriots’ game captains for Super Bowl LX. He later revealed that it’s <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-vrabel" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vrabel</a> who has been helping him become more of a leader for the team. That might be one of the reasons Vrabel had this team in the Super Bowl and won Coach of the Year.



Speaking to Mike Reiss of ESPN, Gonzalez said, “Been trying to find my voice, my leadership. Everyone knows I’m not much of a gather the team up and give them a speech [type of leader].&nbsp;Vrabes has been helping me with that, talking with me about it. Trying to grow.” 



<h2>Gonzalez is also a leader by example</h2>



While some players are incredible on the field, but might be a bit out-of-the-box as teammates. Others are incredible people’s persons, but on the field, they’re not as impactful. Gonzalez is now evolving into being the best of both worlds. A stud on the field, and a leader in the locker room.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Christian Gonzalez held his own in the Super Bowl.<a href="https://t.co/0xYQzkHsXW">pic.twitter.com/0xYQzkHsXW</a>— Football Is Life (@FootbaIl_Tweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/FootbaIl_Tweets/status/2020926061530448252?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



Gonzalez earned Pro Bowl honors in 2025 and was a second-team All Pro last year. In just three years of career, Gonzalez has only three interceptions, but has 24 defended passes, 145 total tackles, and has allowed just 56.9% of completion in passes directed his way. When quarterbacks target him, they just have a 77.3 rating. Gonzalez is as great as a cornerback can be in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a>.


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<h2>The Patriots are used to top-tier cornerbacks</h2>



During the first part of the Patriots’ dynasty, Ty Law was locking out every top-tier wideout in the NFL. In 2004, he departed, but the Patriots had Asante Samuel already on the roster. From 2003 to 2007, he was iconic for the Patriots. A few years passed, but then they had all-time great Darrelle Revis for a year and won Super Bowl XLIX.



A few years passed, and then they had “Mr. INT” in J.C. Jackson and Defensive Player of the Year Stephon Gilmore. Hence, the Patriots have a very good sense of what to look for in cornerbacks and Gonzalez is the last proof of it.

Patriots star gets real on Mike Vrabel's impact on his growth as a player - Bolavip US

The last NFL season saw the New England Patriots emerge as one of the league’s most prominent teams, ultimately falling in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> to the Seahawks. While Drake Maye’s squad fell short of capping off a remarkable year with the Vince Lombardi Trophy, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-vrabel">Mike Vrabel</a> knows there are still adjustments to be made to get them over the top.



“I like the foundation of it, and we’ll try to improve on it,” the latest Coach of the Year said, via Mike Reiss of ESPN. Prior to Vrabel’s arrival, the Pats posted back-to-back 4–13 records, but in his most recent campaign, the script flipped entirely: 14 wins and just three losses.



While the level the team displayed throughout the regular season — and even into the postseason — was far superior to some of its rivals, the head coach knows several changes are coming from here on out in order to improve the results.



“There’ll be some difficult decisions that we’ll have to make, and we’ll try to do them with the team’s best interest in mind. As always, that’ll never change,” the former Titans coach also added.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/02/16083118/mike-vrabel-11-1920x1080.webp" alt="Mike Vrabel New England Patriots HC" class="wp-image-580748"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Mike Vrabel of the New England Patriots.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Preparing for what’s next</h2>



Building a competitive roster to best support <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/drake-maye">Drake Maye</a> has become imperative for this team, with the offensive line perhaps standing out as its Achilles’ heel. Vrabel understands the business of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> well, which is why he knows exactly how to approach this new process.


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“As I was taught, we talk about the business of the NFL, we’re looking for the better, younger, cheaper player every day, and the players that we have are trying to not let that happen,” Vrabel said. “And that’s the dynamic. That’s the business of the National Football League.”



Even in moments when the franchise must recover from the recent defeat in Santa Clara, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">Patriots</a>’ front office and coaching staff have no intention of resting and are already thinking about building the future team in Foxborough.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="69931ea7d1eb01dac3090dd2" data-title="Which position do you think the Patriots should reinforce this offseason?" data-options="8"></div>

Mike Vrabel sends clear message to Drake Maye, Patriots ahead of next NFL season - Bolavip US

Eli Manning and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bill-belichick" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bill Belichick</a> were both left out of the 2026 Hall of Fame class. While Manning’s omission drew attention, Belichick’s snub was even more shocking — and the former quarterback has now delivered a bold message about it.



Despite winning six <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Super Bowls</a>, Belichick failed to gain induction in his first year of eligibility. The decision stunned much of the football world, including <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/eli-manning" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Manning</a>, who believes there may be no one more deserving of a place in Canton than the legendary coach.



“Bill Belichick not making the Hall of Fame is pretty shocking,” Eli Manning told ClutchPoints.com. “You have one of – if not maybe the greatest coach of all time — and what he built there in New England, and the amount of Super Bowls they went to, and AFC championships, let alone just the amount that they won, it was incredible. I can’t imagine a more deserving coach to make it in the Hall of Fame than him.”



<h2>The Hall of Fame could face bigger issues in 2028</h2>



With Manning — a two-time Super Bowl champion — and Belichick — a six-time champion — both missing out in 2026, the Pro Football Hall of Fame will face significant scrutiny moving forward.



Several prominent figures across the NFL, including <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/chiefs-patrick-mahomes-sends-strong-message-to-nfl-after-bill-belichicks-hall-of-fame-snub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Patrick Mahomes, expressed surprise at Belichick’s omission</a>. Some speculate that lingering controversies from his career — including incidents like Deflategate — may have influenced voters.



However, Belichick’s snub also raises a larger question: What happens in 2028 when <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tom Brady</a> becomes eligible? Brady, a seven-time Super Bowl champion, is widely expected to be a first-ballot Hall of Famer. If voters penalized Belichick for past controversies, it could spark debate about whether similar scrutiny would apply to Brady.


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Most fans and analysts expect Belichick to be inducted in 2027. But if he were to be passed over again, the Hall of Fame’s credibility would likely face serious criticism — especially with Brady’s first year of eligibility looming in 2028.

Eli Manning throws slight shade at Hall of Fame voters over Bill Belichick’s snub from 2026 class

Mike Vrabel loses Super Bowl in first season as Patriots HC: How long did it take Bill Belichick to win first ring?

NFL Rumors: Report reveals how many votes Bill Belichick fell short of the Hall of Fame

Eli Manning throws slight shade at Hall of Fame voters over Bill Belichick’s snub from 2026 class - Bolavip US

A major reason the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New England Patriots</a> reached Super Bowl LX was the breakout performance of Drake Maye. Following his impressive 2025 campaign, several members of the coaching staff drew interest from other teams. However, the Patriots have managed to retain one key figure who played a crucial role in the quarterback’s development.



After a challenging rookie season in 2024, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/drake-maye" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maye</a> made significant strides in 2025. He led New England to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Super Bowl</a> LX and, despite the loss, gave fans reason to believe the franchise may have finally found Tom Brady’s long-term successor.



The Patriots recognize the importance of maintaining that upward trajectory. As a result, they ensured continuity by keeping quarterbacks coach Ashton Grant, who was instrumental in Maye’s growth and transformation into a more polished and confident starter.



<h2>Which team was interested in Ashton Grant?</h2>



According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Media, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/las-vegas-raiders" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Las Vegas Raiders</a> expressed interest in interviewing Ashton Grant for their vacant offensive coordinator position. However, the Patriots blocked the request, as they are determined to retain him for at least another season.



Grant currently serves as the Patriots’ quarterbacks coach and is widely viewed as a key factor behind Drake Maye’s significant improvement in 2025. It was his first year in the role after joining the organization alongside head coach Mike Vrabel.



Prior to Grant’s arrival, Maye worked with T.C. McCartney under former head coach Jerod Mayo. During the 2024 season, Maye finished with a 3–9 record and a 55.2 QBR. In 2025, his performance took a major leap, leading New England to a 14–3 record and a Super Bowl appearance, while posting a 77.1 QBR in the regular season.


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Patriots hold on to key coach who was crucial for Drake Maye’s improvement in 2025

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Patriots hold on to key coach who was crucial for Drake Maye's improvement in 2025 - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks">Seattle Seahawks</a> captured Super Bowl LX with a dominant 29-13 victory over the New England Patriots, securing the second Lombardi Trophy in franchise history. Following the championship win, the team have signed 15 players to future contracts, including two veterans who were active for the victory against the Patriots.



Among the young players signed by the Seahawks, running backs Cam Akers and Velus Jones stand out, as both were active for Super Bowl LX and contributed on special teams during the win over <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">New England</a>.



The victory earned Akers the second Super Bowl ring of his career, as he was previously a member of the Los Angeles Rams squad that won <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> LVI. Both players will now join the team’s 90-man offseason roster, where they will look to secure a permanent spot on the 53-man squad for the upcoming season.



The Hawks’ decision to retain these backs comes as Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III is set to enter free agency and Zach Charbonnet continues to recover from an ACL tear suffered during the playoffs. This situation creates a potential opening in the backfield where Akers and Jones could compete for significant roles.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/02/13135915/cam-akers-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-579339"></figure><figcaption>Cam Akers of the Seattle Seahawks stretches during a practice ahead of Super Bowl LX. (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Full list of Seahawks future signings</h2>



While Akers and Jones were elevated from the practice squad specifically for the Super Bowl run, the remaining 13 signees spent the season on either the practice squad or the injured reserve list. 


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The following players have signed new deals with the team:



<ul><li>Running Backs: Cam Akers, Velus Jones, Jacardia Wright.</li><li>Wide Receivers: Tyrone Broden, Montorie Foster, Ricky White.</li><li>Offensive Line: Logan Brown (T), Federico Maranges (C).</li><li>Defensive Line: J.R. Singleton (NT), Bubba Thomas (NT).</li><li>Linebackers: Chris Paul, Jamie Sheriff, Ja’Markis Weston.</li><li>Secondary: Tyler Hall (CB), Maxen Hook (S).</li></ul>

Seahawks sign two players to future contracts after winning Super Bowl LX vs Patriots

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Seahawks sign two players to future contracts after winning Super Bowl LX vs Patriots - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New England Patriots</a> had one of the most infamous roads to a Super Bowl last season. They want to go back to the Big Game, but in the 2026 NFL season, the road to glory is going to be a much tougher test.



Many said the reason the Patriots went to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Super Bowl</a> was due to their easy schedule and luck facing depleted teams in the playoffs. For the doubters, that was proven almost true as the Pats were blown out by the Seahawks in Super Bowl LX.



Because the Patriots won the division, and thanks to a rotation that has all teams in the AFC East facing every team in the AFC West and NFC North, their schedule in 2026 will be way harder. Both at home and away, the Pats will have to dig deep to buy wins next season.



<h2>Home and away schedule for the Pats in 2026</h2>



At home, New England will host the Bills, Dolphins, Jets, Broncos, Packers, Steelers, Vikings, and Raiders. This also means the Patriots will have more away games than matchups at Gillette Stadium.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/02/08234131/drake-maye-2-1920x1080.webp" alt="Drake Maye" class="wp-image-576805"></figure><figcaption>Drake Maye at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.</figcaption></figure>



The Patriots will visit their AFC East rivals too. Then, they will have trips to Seattle, Chicago, Detroit, Kansas City, Jacksonville, and Los Angeles to face the Chargers. All in all, they will face eight playoff teams (one twice: Buffalo), and teams that are coming back with a vengeance like the Lions, Chiefs, and Vikings.


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<h2>The Patriots will have to improve massively to go back to the Super Bowl</h2>



Usually, a team that is fresh off a Super Bowl appearance will try to keep all the pieces and just add a few more. However, this Patriots team first has to fill some holes on its roster. The team must solve their left tackle issue. Will Campbell is not the answer, and a change to guard could be the best for him, but then, someone will need to provide elite protection on <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/drake-maye" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Drake Maye</a>‘s blind side.



Also, the wide receivers’ room should get an improvement. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stefon-diggs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stefon Diggs</a> is a great wideout but his best days are behind him. Diggs barely cracked the 1,000-yard treshold and he will be 33 next season. Kayshon Boutte and Mack Hollins are good but won’t be difference-makers. They need a solid WR1 to help Drake Maye and open up spaces for Diggs.

Patriots 2026 NFL season outlook will elevate competition as team hopes to go back to the Super Bowl

Patriots 2026 NFL season outlook will elevate competition as team hopes to go back to the Super Bowl - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kansas City Chiefs</a> and Andy Reid know that the running back position was a headache during the 2025 season. Undoubtedly, it was a key factor in why they were unable to make a deep playoff run.



Now, heading into 2026, addressing that weakness has become a priority. Everything points to Isiah Pacheco not receiving a contract extension and, although Kareem Hunt did a good job, especially in short yardage situations, they need a star.



Rumors surrounding names who could help <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/patrick-mahomes">Patrick Mahomes</a> have not stopped. Breece Hall could be a free agent in the coming weeks and, through the draft, Jeremiyah Love could be a great option if he is available on the board.



<h2>Chiefs former RB signs with Patriots</h2>



One player who will not return to the Kansas City Chiefs is Elijah Mitchell. The New England Patriots have confirmed that they signed the free agent just a few days after their loss in the Super Bowl against the Seahawks.


 

 


“The New England Patriots announced that they have signed T Sebastian Gutierrez and RB Elijah Mitchell to futures contracts. Both of those players spent time on the New England practice squad in 2025.”



Mitchell signed in the 2025 season to provide depth on the roster at the running back position, but he did not have the impact that was expected during the period when Isiah Pacheco was injured. Now he will look for a new opportunity with the Patriots.


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<h2>Jeremiyah Love to Chiefs is an option for 2026 to replace RB</h2>



In this scenario, the Chiefs could <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/andy-reid-and-chiefs-could-add-star-running-back-to-help-patrick-mahomes-and-travis-kelce-in-2026">add a star running back</a>, and that name could be Jeremiyah Love, who had a very good career in college football with Notre Dame. Everything will depend on whether he becomes a possibility with the No. 9 overall pick.

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Ahead of the 2026 NFL season, Will Campbell and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">New England Patriots</a> are determined to turn the page after their rough defeat in Super Bowl LX. Offering to help the overly criticized rookie in New England, former five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Terron Armstead has emerged to lend a hand.



“[Armstead] has actually volunteered to have Will Campbell workout with him this summer in Dallas,” Cameron Wolfe reported on NFL Network. “He believes [Campbell’s] issues are fixable.”



Armstead has been named to five Pro Bowls throughout his 13-year <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> career. Though he played for the Patriots’ AFC East rivals, the Miami Dolphins, Armstead is now willing to offer key insight to a rookie who has been caught in the eye of the storm after a very strong debut campaign. 



Unfortunately for Campbell, his worst game of the season came at the worst possible time. His flaws were on full display for millions of fans, as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/super-bowl-lx-viewership-how-many-fans-tuned-in-for-seahawks-vs-patriots-in-2026">Super Bowl LX’s viewership</a> reached roughly 124 million viewers in the U.S. More importantly, he couldn’t help his teammates, and they let an unsurpassable opportunity slip through their fingers.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/02/11154743/terron-armstead-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-578221"></figure><figcaption>Terron Armstead with the Miami Dolphins</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Campbell’s rough outing</h2>



According to <a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/patriots-rookie-will-campbell-allows-nfl-worst-14-pressures-in-super-bowl-loss">NFL.com</a>, Campbell allowed 14 pressures on quarterback Drake Maye in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> LX. It was the worst mark by any pass protector in the entire NFL season. His outing made so much noise around the league that head coach <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/mike-vrabel-reveals-final-decision-with-will-campbell-after-patriots-super-bowl-loss-to-seahawks">Mike Vrabel revealed a final decision with Campbell after Super Bowl LX</a>. 


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Although Campbell surrendered only one sack, his numbers show just how much of the true impact on the football field is lost in traditional stats and box-score watching. 



The Seattle Seahawks had their way with the Patriots for most of the game, but the pass rush consistently found a corridor through which to reach—or get close enough to disrupt—Maye and New England’s offense. Now, Armstead wants to help Campbell correct what went wrong so that, if he ever makes it back to a Super Bowl, he isn’t caught flat-footed in the trenches. 



Where many across the NFL see a fallen tree they can chop firewood from, Armstead sees potential and a chance to make an impact in the league even after retirement.

5x Pro Bowler takes Will Campbell under his wing with bold decision after Patriots' Super Bowl loss - Bolavip US

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