Stefon Diggs says his Patriots contract -- worth $69 million, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter -- is the range the wide receiver expected, in part because he is coming off a torn ACL.

The years of Stefon Diggs being one of the most prolific receivers in the NFL have probably passed. But the 31-year-old believes he still has plenty to offer as he prepares to embark on his latest stop with the New England Patriots.

FOXBOROUGH — Stefon Diggs sounded an optimistic tone Friday, saying he’s “ahead of schedule” in his rehab from a torn ACL last season with the Texans. The 31-year-old receiver, who signed a three-year deal with the Patriots this week, said Friday at Gillette Stadium he anticipates being ready to play “when the whistle blows.”

The New England Patriots are in mourning this week after the death of Matt Stevens, who won Super Bowl with the team in 2001.

The Patriots released one of the last remaining players from the Super Bowl teams with Tom Brady at quarterback.

In a surprising move, the New England Patriots are reportedly releasing linebacker Ja'Whaun Bentley, per Boston Herald's Doug Kyed. Bentley suffered a season-ending pec injury in Week 2 last season. However,