Exclusive; Bills QB Josh Allen’s Text to Stefon Diggs After Surprise Trade
The NFL community was shocked when the Buffalo Bills traded Stefon Diggs to the Houston Texans.
By immediately parting ways with their No.1 wide receiver, the Bills chewed through over $31 million in dead money and suffered a cap hit of $4 million. To sweeten the deal, they surrendered two future draft picks – a sixth-round pick for 2024 and a fifth-round pick for 2025 – to Houston while receiving only one second-rounder for their efforts come 2025.
On Thursday, April 18th, the Bills’ esteemed quarterback Josh Allen spoke out publicly for the first time regarding his trade after being informed of it beforehand by general manager Brandon Beane.
According to Allentold reporters, “We’ve implemented numerous alterations this offseason and unfortunately lost several experienced leaders. Stef was one of them. However, that’s just how the business works. As we approach Year 7, it is what it is – my job isn’t to make adjustments on the team.”
Allen recounted, “I sent him a message,” referring to Diggs. “He replied and I expressed my gratitude for all he has done for me. He will always hold a special place in my heart like family; I have nothing but affection towards him and hope the best for his future endeavors… His contribution was significant – just take a glance at the stats.”
He credits Diggs’ mindset as the most valuable lesson he gained. The way in which he tackled every practice left a lasting impression, particularly on the rookies. Moreover, his enduring memory of Diggs is that of an outstanding receiver who played a crucial role in shaping him into the quarterback he has become today.
With the absence of veterans, Bills quarterback Josh Allen is eagerly accepting his new role as a leader alongside newcomer Stefon Diggs.
Allen was unsure why the question about Diggs’ satisfaction in Buffalo persisted, stating that he couldn’t provide a response. He suggested that those curious should pose the inquiry directly to him instead. Additionally, with their current offense and potential for growth within the team as a whole, Allen believes they have immense possibilities to transform into an upgraded version of themselves under new management by creating opportunities for everyone involved on this Bills team.
“By incorporating Curtis Samuel and Mack Hollins, along with the familiarity of Khalil Shakir, Dalton Kincaid and Dawson Knox within our system, we have enabled a dynamic where anyone can receive the ball at any moment. Our team is highly enthusiastic about this approach which has led them to work tirelessly towards success.”
The 27-year-old expressed that with Diggs’ departure, it presents a chance for them to develop as a leader. They shared their enthusiasm towards the opportunity despite acknowledging its challenges and stated they are ready to take on this role.
The Bills released six veterans from their team to save on the salary cap prior to Diggs being traded. Allen acknowledged that losing those players would be difficult as he relied on the more experienced teammates for advice. However, he is excited about taking a lead role in shaping and developing the younger members of his team.
Reporters were informed by Allen that he had messaged Beane with the words “Dalton Kincaid” before last year’s NFL draft. This message led to the Buffalo Bills trading up and securing Kincaid for their team. Although Allen has expressed his fondness for certain wide receiver prospects this year, it is ultimately Beane who will make the final decision.
He said, “Although I would like to believe that my opinion counts when it comes to selecting people, the truth is quite different.”