A devastating moment in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals left Celtics fans heartbroken and the NBA world reeling. Jayson Tatum, Boston’s All-NBA forward and emotional leader, crumpled to the hardwood with just minutes remaining — his right Achilles torn in a gut-wrenching injury that not only ended his playoff run but cast serious doubt on his availability for next season.
As tributes and well-wishes poured in from across the sports world, one of the most notable came from a new face in New England sports: Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs.
Stefon Diggs Shows Solidarity as Boston Rallies Around Celtics Star Jayson Tatum
Diggs, who joined the Patriots in 2025 free agency, offered a succinct but powerful message to Tatum via Instagram after the Celtics star thanked fans for their support post-surgery: “Prayers up champion.”
The gesture may have been short, but for those familiar with Diggs’ story, it carried extra weight. The veteran receiver is no stranger to adversity, nor to the intense spotlight of being a franchise cornerstone.
An All-Pro and four-time Pro Bowler, Diggs built his reputation on route-running precision, clutch catches, and a relentless work ethic. His NFL journey began in Minnesota, but it was in Buffalo where he hit his prime, stringing together four 1,000-yard seasons and posting a career-best 1,535 yards in 2020.
However, his 2024 campaign with the Houston Texans was derailed by a torn ACL in Week 8— an injury that, no doubt, reminded him just how fragile an elite career can be. That shared experience of a significant lower-body injury likely helped fuel his empathy for Tatum, whose Achilles tear will sideline him for at least 9–12 months.
A decade into his career, Diggs finds himself in Boston, as well — as a member of the Patriots. He’s looking to reestablish himself as a top target while mentoring a young, rebuilding roster. His move to Foxborough symbolizes a new chapter for his career and a deeper connection with New England sports culture, one where loyalty, toughness, and resilience are celebrated. His message to Tatum underscores that.
Tatum, meanwhile, has been the face of the Celtics since 2017, leading Boston to its 18th championship in 2024 and securing a $314 million supermax extension that ensures his future in green and white.
His presence on the floor will be irreplaceable, and the Celtics’ hopes for a miracle comeback in their current series rest on others stepping up in his absence. Still, his influence remains, echoed in the support he’s received from fellow athletes like Diggs.
As the Celtics turn to Jaylen Brown and Kristaps Porzingis to keep their season alive, Diggs’ brief message is just another example of how Boston’s athletes back each other, no matter the sport.