**Stefon Diggs Returns to Patriots Practice, Shows Encouraging Progress**

After missing the previous two sessions open to the media, Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs made an appearance at Monday's voluntary practice at Gillette Stadium. Diggs, who had stirred attention for non-football matters the previous week, greeted the gathered reporters briefly by saying, "Nice to see you all."

Despite not being a full participant due to his ongoing recovery from a torn ACL sustained last October, Diggs seemed to be in good shape during conditioning drills and routes. He also took part in positional drills and walkthroughs, although he sat out the competitive, full-speed team periods. Instead, Diggs spent that time working closely with receivers coach Todd Downing, offensive assistant Riley Larkin, and 2024’s second-round pick, Ja'Lynn Polk, who is also recovering from an injury.

Even in his limited capacity, Diggs’ presence on the field was a positive sign. He ran routes, caught passes from quarterback Drake Maye, and worked on building chemistry with his teammates. Although Diggs is still a potential candidate to start the season on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, head coach Mike Vrabel has not provided any injury timetables.

While Diggs refrained from further comments to the media, coach Vrabel addressed the controversy from the previous week, involving a video of Diggs and an unidentified pink substance. Vrabel emphasized the importance of making good decisions both on and off the field but kept his conversations with Diggs private.

Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels expressed no concern over Diggs's occasional absences from the spring sessions, noting that perfect attendance is seldom achieved and assured that Diggs is keeping up with the team's information and materials.

Monday's practice also offered several other noteworthy observations. Tight end Austin Hooper, tackle Vederian Lowe, right guard Mike Onwenu, and center Jared Wilson practiced in a limited capacity. Absences included wide receivers Kendrick Bourne and Mack Hollins, cornerbacks Carlton Davis and Marcus Jones, linebacker Anfernee Jennings, and guard Tyrese Robinson.

The session took a somber turn when linebacker Jahlani Tavai sustained a left leg injury during team drills. He was assisted off the field by teammates after grabbing the back of his left knee.

An undrafted rookie receiver, Efton Chism, is making a strong case for a roster spot with seven receptions during team drills. Chism, along with running back Lan Larison and fullback Brock Lampe, are top candidates among the undrafted rookies to make the final roster.

Quarterback Drake Maye shone bright, completing 14 of 16 passes during the 11-on-11 periods, including a notable deep throw to running back Rhamondre Stevenson, who made a diving catch.

While evaluating the offensive line proves challenging during non-contact organized team activities, right tackle Morgan Moses has emerged as a leader, staying back after practice to provide guidance to rookies Demontrey Jacobs and Jack Conley.

In the kicking department, rookie Andres Borregales demonstrated his edge by making all four of his field goal attempts within the range of 33-49 yards, outperforming John Parker Romo, who missed two of four attempts.