FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel confirmed on Wednesday that he is aware of a controversial video featuring receiver Stefon Diggs. The video reportedly shows Diggs handing a bag containing pink crystals to several women while on a boat. Vrabel opted not to disclose whether he has addressed the matter directly with Diggs.

Vrabel emphasized the importance of making sound decisions both on and off the field. “It’s something that we’re aware of. The message will be the same for all our players; we’re trying to make great decisions,” he said during a press conference prior to an optional practice session that Diggs did not attend.

The NFL has yet to comment on the incident, and representatives for Diggs have not provided any statements regarding the video. The substance within the bag remains unidentified.

The video surfaced amid speculation surrounding Diggs and hip-hop artist Cardi B, who has gained significant attention after attending several public events alongside him. They were spotted together at notable gatherings, including a playoff game between the Boston Celtics and the New York Knicks. This season, Diggs signed a lucrative three-year contract with the Patriots worth $69 million, which guarantees $26 million.

Having switched teams from the Buffalo Bills, where he enjoyed a successful tenure, Diggs is anticipated to be a crucial asset for the Patriots. The four-time Pro Bowl selection had established a remarkable record of six consecutive seasons with at least 1,000 receiving yards before his trade to Houston last spring. However, his time with the Texans was marred by injury; he caught 47 passes for 496 yards and three touchdowns in only eight games before suffering a significant knee injury.

If he can maintain his health, Diggs is expected to serve as a key target for second-year quarterback Drake Maye. Vrabel, now in his first season leading the team after serving as a player for eight of his fourteen years in the NFL, aims to steer the Patriots toward improvement after back-to-back disappointing seasons. The franchise finished with only four wins in each of those campaigns under previous coaches Bill Belichick and Jerod Mayo.

As the season approaches, the focus will be on both Diggs’ performance on the field and his conduct off it, as the Patriots work to redefine their identity in the league.