Texans WR Stefon Diggs grateful for time in Buffalo despite 'ups and downs,' 'happy' to be in Houston

In his first interview since being traded from Buffalo to Houston, Stefon Diggs took the high road.

He expressed gratitude for his time with the Bills, where he caught 445 passes for 5,372 yards and 37 touchdowns and became a perennial Pro Bowler. He recognized Josh Allen for his efforts in their partnership. And eventually, he explained where it all went wrong.

“Allen was a crucial part of my career,” Diggs mentioned on Tuesday referring to the two-time Pro Bowl quarterback of the Bills. “When I departed from Minnesota, I was a solid player. However, I always believed I had more potential. I believed I was capable of exceeding that – of outperforming that. Until then, I thought ‘Damn. I’m just going to take a chance and back myself.'”

Upon my arrival in Buffalo, Josh immediately became and remains my go-to person. Many people fail to grasp the reality of being in such a position. Yet, Josh genuinely welcomed me, exhibiting a kind of southern hospitality. We spent considerable time together, and without him, I doubt I’d be where I am today. I hold deep affection for him, so please, on my behalf, give him a heartfelt hug and kiss.

Diggs truly blossomed in Buffalo, where in four seasons he exceeded his totals recorded in five years in Minnesota. But Diggs’ departure could be seen coming for some time. He expressed his displeasure and frustration with Buffalo’s repeated failures to finish deep playoff runs with Super Bowl appearances, and during mandatory minicamp in 2023, a brief absence caused an internal issue that forced Allen to answer for his teammate.

Still, the production was worth the antics and the $104 million due to Diggs over four years. When that was no longer true — such as when Joe Brady replaced Ken Dorsey as offensive coordinator during the 2023 season and Diggs’ usage dropped significantly — the time came to move Diggs.

The receiver expressed that he anticipated a separation to occur at some point in 2023.

“Indeed, we faced numerous highs and lows, particularly following the initial eight games. Our coaching team underwent a change and we had varying strategies and approaches,” Diggs shared. “You’re familiar with the fluctuations. Personally, I could sense the changes coming. Upon my trade, I felt a sense of happiness and contentment. I was in a positive space. As I’ve always maintained, I asked God to guide my journey, and here I am. He never errs,” he added.

Houston not only acquired Diggs through a trade but also discarded his existing contract and offered him a new one-year deal. This new contract provides Diggs with the opportunity to earn another payout in 2025, provided he performs well in 2024.

So far, so good.

“Diggs is exactly the kind of player I anticipated we’d acquire,” expressed Texans coach DeMeco Ryans on Tuesday. “He’s consistently made plays and has always managed to catch the ball when we’ve thrown to him. He’s reliable and an exceptional teammate, bringing a positive energy both within the building and the locker room. I’m eagerly looking forward to witnessing his ongoing development.”

Quarterback C.J. Stroud lit the league on fire in his rookie season, winning Offensive Rookie of the Year in a landslide and even garnering some outside consideration for NFL Most Valuable Player. He did so while teaming with the likes of Nico Collins, Robert Woods, Dalton Schultz and fellow rookie Tank Dell. Adding Diggs to that group was massive.

Should Stroud continue in 2024 from where he left off last season, the new partnership is expected to yield significant results for both parties.

Stroud spoke highly of Diggs, saying, “He’s integrated perfectly. He came in with a humble attitude and has been working hard. He’s been a great help to me. He’s assumed a leadership role, something I’m very proud of him for. He’s shown great generosity, always looking out for others. His primary wish was to work alongside others who are as dedicated as he is. He wanted to be a part of a team where everyone is as committed as he is, and that’s exactly what we offer.”

Diggs is unquestionably lucky to have been able to run routes for two quarterbacks with dogged determination, Allen and Stroud, in his career. As the Texans continue to build a strong team around Stroud, their goal should be to maximize their potential. It’s time to stock up on the necessities – the dry food and bones, so to speak. For the Texans, 2024 is their year to feast.