Stefon Diggs Trades to Houston Texans, Headed for 2025 Free Agency

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ICARO Media Group
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05/04/2024 18h29

In a surprising move, the Houston Texans have acquired former Buffalo Bills star wide receiver, Stefon Diggs, via trade this week. However, the trade comes with an interesting twist, as Diggs will have the opportunity to hit free agency after the 2024 season.

According to ESPN, the Texans have agreed to restructure Diggs' current contract, ensuring that he will receive a guaranteed $22.52 million in 2024. As part of the revised deal, the final three years of Diggs' extension from his time in Buffalo will be voided, allowing him to explore the open market and potentially find a new home after his debut with the Texans.

Under the restructured contract, Diggs will receive a substantial $20.805 million signing bonus, in addition to a base salary of $1.21 million. He will also earn a $250,000 offseason workout bonus and per-game roster bonuses of up to $255,000. As a result, Diggs' cap hit for the 2024 season will amount to $5.876 million.

While Houston does not have Diggs locked in for the long term, this arrangement is likely to fuel his motivation to perform at a high level. The Pro Bowl receiver will have a clear path to secure a new contract and potentially choose his next destination after the 2024 campaign, unless the Texans and Diggs negotiate an extension themselves.

Looking ahead to potential suitors for Diggs in 2025, the Cincinnati Bengals could be an enticing option. With Joe Burrow as their quarterback, they already boast Ja'Marr Chase as their top receiver. However, fellow wideout Tee Higgins is set to hit free agency in 2025, making room for Diggs. The Bengals are projected to have over $90 million in salary cap space, providing flexibility to make a competitive offer.

Another possible landing spot is the Washington Commanders. Playing in Diggs' home state of Maryland and having a top young quarterback prospect, Washington would be an ideal fit. Additionally, new head coach Dan Quinn has shown a willingness to invest in proven talent to strengthen the team. With more than $100 million in projected cap space in 2025, money should not be an issue for the Commanders.

The New York Giants also present an intriguing option for Diggs. Despite current quarterback uncertainties, the Giants are led by a coach and general manager who were part of the Buffalo Bills regime that made a significant investment to acquire Diggs. His admiration for ex-offensive coordinator Brian Daboll, the coach's close ties, and the potential reunion could make New York an attractive destination.

Lastly, the Baltimore Ravens could be in the mix. With Odell Beckham Jr.'s departure, the Ravens are in win-now mode as long as Lamar Jackson is their quarterback. They have approximately $40 million in projected cap space for 2025 and a need for a wide receiver, even after acquiring Zay Flowers.

As Diggs settles into his new team, all eyes will be on his performance throughout the 2024 season. Whether he secures a new deal or explores available options, the wide receiver's journey will undoubtedly be a fascinating one.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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