Patriots weigh Stefon Diggs reunion as Kyle Williams keeps jersey No. 18

Patriots rookie defensive end Kyle Williams decided to remain in jersey No. 18, forgoing a switch to No. 8 that had been worn by former wide‑receiver Stefon Diggs. The move has reignited fan speculation that New England may bring Diggs back after his March release.

Diggs finished the 2023 season with 85 receptions for 1,013 yards, becoming the Patriots’ first 1,000‑yard receiver since 2019 and a key target for rookie quarterback Drake Maye. He was cleared of an assault charge in early May, after which teammates posted supportive messages on social media. The Patriots have since added A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs, and rumors suggest a potential receiving corps featuring Diggs alongside the new acquisitions.

No official decision has been announced, but the jersey‑number saga and fan reaction—ranging from chants of “keep that #8 available” to widespread social‑media buzz—suggest the team’s front office may keep Diggs on the trading block or re‑sign him before the next season.