Patriots players address legal cases for the first time

As the New England Patriots contend for the No. 1 seed in the AFC playoffs in Week 18, two of their players are dealing with off-field situations.

Wide receiver Stefon Diggs is facing felony strangulation or suffocation charge as well as misdemeanor assault and defensive lineman Christian Barmore is facing assault and battery charges.

Coach Mike Vrabel said Wednesday that the team was ‘aware of these allegations’ against both players and would let the legal processes play out.

Diggs spoke with reporters today and apologized for not speaking earlier.

‘Sorry I wasn’t available for those couple of days,’ he said. ‘It’s a different kind of time dealing with everything. It’s definitely an open case so I can’t be, I can’t even say anything about it.’

He added he’d be open to any football-related questions ahead of the Patriots’ season finale.

‘It’s a different time, a very emotional time,’ Diggs said. ‘I’m taken back by some things that’s been going on.’

Barmore similarly deflected questions related to his case in his first media availability this week.

‘We’re focused on Miami and playing football,’ he said when asked questions related to his case.

In statements on both situations, the Patriots did not comment beyond stating the franchise is aware of both cases and will cooperate fully with the league.

Here’s what the team said about Barmore:

‘The New England Patriots are aware of reports regarding a pending February arraignment involving Christian Barmore, which stems from an alleged domestic incident that occurred in August. ‘The Patriots were made aware at the time of the incident and informed the NFL in a timely manner. The matter remains part of an ongoing legal process. We will respect that process, continue to monitor the situation closely, as we have over the past few months, and cooperate fully with the league. We will have no further comment at this time.’

Here’s the team statement on Diggs:

‘Stefon has informed the organization that he categorically denies the allegations. We support Stefon. We will continue to gather information and will cooperate fully with the appropriate authorities and the NFL as necessary. Out of respect for all parties involved, and given that this is an ongoing legal matter, we will have no further comment at this time.’

Vrabel said Wednesday he expects both players on the field against the Dolphins in Week 18.

‘I haven’t heard anything that would keep either player from the game,’ Vrabel said. ‘The NFL hasn’t told me anything. … I haven’t had a call with the NFL.’

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