Dion Dawkins is a pro who understands that the NFL is a business. After seven seasons, it’s not uncommon for the left tackle to watch the roster go through an overhaul in the offseason.
But Dawkins admitted losing veterans like safety Jordan Poyer, center Mitch Morse and cornerback Tre’Davious White was challenging. So was losing four-time Pro Bowler Stefon Diggs, who now hopes to be a vital asset for the Houston Texans as they build off a 10-7 finish.
“I hate to see him go. But I’m gonna love to watch him win,” Dawkins told USA TODAY Sports. “I’m gonna love to watch him do great and I’m gonna love to watch him shine. He was one of my favorite teammates. I’m gonna root for him from afar. That’s my brother.”
Traded to Buffalo in 2020, Diggs became Bills quarterback Josh Allen’s most dependable target over four promising seasons in Orchard Park. He led the NFL in receptions and receiving yards in 2020, had four consecutive seasons with more than 100 receptions, earned an All-Pro status and helped Buffalo win four division titles.
However, tension rose between Diggs and other teammates near the end of his tenure. The production also dipped following Ken Dorsey’s firing and Joe Brady’s promotion to offensive coordinator.
In Diggs’ final 10 games, he failed to surpass 35 yards and total more than seven catches in six games, including two playoff outings. He also only scored once following a hot start to the regular season.
There’s been a negative connotation around Diggs’ persona, especially following his antics on the sidelines in big-time losses. Dawkins doesn’t view his former teammate as a ‘diva,’ but rather as a player who has a distinct fondness and wants to help his team win.
“Diggs plays with a lot of passion,” Dawkins said. “When you show a lot of passion, things can be misjudged or misconstrued. Diggs is just one of those guys who does everything with a lot of emotion.”
That passion is needed in Houston following C.J. Stroud’s breakout rookie season. The Texans see a window to win their first Lombardi Trophy, especially with the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year still on an affordable contract.
Traded for a future second-round pick, Diggs joins an offensive arsenal headlined by breakout pass-catcher Nico Collins, speed threat Tank Dell and veteran tight end Dalton Schultz. He’ll also be up for a new contract after Houston voided the final three years of his deal signed with Buffalo.
Dawkins might root for Diggs’ success most days, but they’ll be enemies when the Bills travel to Houston to face off in Week 5.