Stefon Diggs’ move from the Minnesota Vikings to the Buffalo Bills in 2020 had fans speculating about his frustrations with quarterback Kirk Cousins and the team’s inability to win a Super Bowl. However, the real reason behind the trade was different—Diggs wanted to be the number one receiver, and his teammate Adam Thielen stood in the way.
On the NFL Digest podcast, Diggs revealed that playing alongside Thielen made him feel like he couldn’t reach his full potential. He wanted to be the “top dog” in the offense, and though the Vikings relied on him for big plays, he wasn’t consistently treated as the WR1 (wide receiver one).
“It was like they treated me like a number one, but sometimes they played me small,” Diggs explained. The uncertainty left him frustrated and feeling undervalued. That’s when he decided it was time for a fresh start—betting on himself by asking for a trade.
Former @Vikings WR Stefon Diggs reveals the truth on why he left Minnesota 👀
— The Purple Persuasion (@TPPSkol) October 1, 2024
Diggs left because he didn’t want to be WR2 behind Adam Thielen.
“I love [Thielen] to death. I love seeing him have success, but for me, I knew I wasn’t going for it.”
🎥: NFL.Digest / IG pic.twitter.com/IqvjRxZn6d
Despite leaving Minnesota, Diggs made it clear that his relationship with Thielen was never the issue. “That’s my bro,” Diggs said. “I love seeing him succeed, but for me, I just knew I wasn’t going to move forward in that situation.” For Diggs, it was about finding a team where he could take on more responsibility and shine as the true number one receiver.
Stefon Diggs had a superb season in Buffalo
His decision to join the Bills paid off. In his first season, Diggs had a career-high 1,535 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns, proving his talent when given the spotlight.
Since then, he’s continued to rack up impressive stats, with four consecutive 1,000-yard seasons in Buffalo, outshining his time with the Vikings.
While Diggs hasn’t yet reached the Super Bowl, his move to Buffalo allowed him to become one of the most consistent and impactful wide receivers in the NFL. Even though it was a tough decision, it’s clear that betting on himself has worked out, both in terms of numbers and recognition as a top receiver.