Patriots Coach Mike Vrabel Addresses Criminal Allegations Against Two Players Ahead of Playoffs
New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel addressed criminal allegations involving two players, Stefon Diggs and Christian Barmore, ahead of the team's playoff game against the Miami Dolphins.
Diggs faces charges of felony strangulation and misdemeanor assault linked to an alleged incident involving a private chef and a financial dispute. Meanwhile, Barmore is accused of domestic assault and battery; his girlfriend alleges that he threw her to the ground in August and grabbed her phone.
Vrabel described the allegations not as disappointing but as distractions that must be managed. He emphasized the team's focus on the upcoming game against the Dolphins and expressed that he does not expect systematic distraction from the situation. Vrabel also noted that the team was aware of the allegations before they became public and will proceed according to league policy without drawing premature conclusions.
The NFL has stated that both Diggs and Barmore are currently eligible to play in Sunday's game. Consideration for placement on the Commissioner's Exempt List could follow if formal charges are filed.
The Patriots released a statement indicating that Diggs denies the accusations and that the team will cooperate with authorities and the NFL. Due to ongoing legal matters, no further comment was provided by the team.
Diggs' attorney labeled the allegations as unsubstantiated and attributed them to an employer–employee financial dispute. Meanwhile, Barmore's attorney asserted that evidence will show no criminal conduct and expects the matter to be resolved soon.
