Stefon Diggs did not hold back after the New England Patriots booked their place in Super Bowl 60, firing back at critics who had written him off earlier in the season.
Diggs' emotional response has quickly gone viral across NFL circles.
What followed was a raw reminder of how much the journey had taken out of the veteran receiver.
Photo by Kara Durrette/Getty Images
Speaking moments after the AFC Championship win , Diggs reflected on the season and the support around him.
"I'm just so proud of this team, man. You don't know how hard this year has been, battling the injury and coming back. Being around the right group of guys.
"Great quarterback, great OC, great team, great head coach. It made it all worth it," Diggs said.
Diggs' comments came after a season in which his durability and explosiveness were frequently questioned. He dealt with injuries that limited his availability and consistency at various points, leading to doubts about whether he could still perform at an elite level.
Those doubts only grew louder as the season progressed, making New England 's late surge and Super Bowl qualification all the more meaningful for the wide receiver.
Diggs then directly addressed the criticism that followed him throughout the year.
"They were calling me washed. Saying I didn't have it no more. I just wanted to prove to myself I am who I say I am. Eliot Wolf took a chance on me.
"This team took a chance on me. I just wanted to make them proud," he added.
While Diggs' raw numbers dipped during stretches of the regular season, his postseason performances told a different story. He played a key role in moving the chains, drawing defensive attention, and providing leadership in high-pressure moments.
For Diggs, the Super Bowl appearance represents validation rather than revenge. After battling injury setbacks and public doubt, he now has the chance to finish the season on the biggest stage in football, with his "washed" label firmly challenged by results that matter most.
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