Darez Diggs: A Football Journey Beyond NFL Headlines

When people hear the surname Diggs, NFL superstars immediately come to mind—Stefon Diggs and Trevon Diggs. Yet another member of the family has forged his own unique path: Darez Diggs, also known as Mar’Sean Diggs. His story shows what it means to be part of a family of athletes while building a career outside the NFL spotlight.
Who Is Darez Diggs?
Darez Diggs was born in Washington, D.C., and grew up immersed in football culture. He is the younger brother of Houston Texans wide receiver Stefon Diggs and Dallas Cowboys cornerback Trevon Diggs. Standing 6’2″ and weighing about 205 pounds, he possesses the physical frame and athletic ability that runs throughout the Diggs household.
Unlike his brothers who made it to the NFL, Darez chose a different football road. He primarily played as a defensive back, taking on both cornerback and safety responsibilities during his college years. Fans resonate with his experience because it reflects the struggles and determination of many athletes who pursue the sport without the fame and riches of the NFL.
Early Life and Family
Growing up in Washington, D.C., Darez and his siblings faced hardship early when their father, Aron Diggs, passed away from heart failure in 2008. This loss shaped the direction of the family, pushing the brothers to rely heavily on each other.
The Diggs brothers—Stefon, Trevon, and Darez—were always competitive, but also supportive of one another. While Stefon’s rise to the NFL created a recognizable path, Darez built his own foundation at Friendship Collegiate Academy, a school known for producing collegiate athletes. This environment helped him establish the groundwork for his football ambitions.
College Career
Darez’s college journey was far from linear. He started at Iowa Western Community College, a program that emphasizes discipline and fundamentals. His performance there gave him a shot at higher-level football, leading him to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB).
At UAB, from 2015 to 2018, Darez refined his skills as a defensive back. He competed against Division I opponents and adapted to a program that had only recently been reinstated after being shut down. His ability to navigate such challenges showed resilience.
Later, he transferred to Morgan State University, a historically Black university in Baltimore. This move not only furthered his playing career but also highlighted his commitment to balancing academics with athletics.
Professional Football Path
Darez Diggs made his professional debut in 2020 when he joined the Los Angeles Wildcats in the XFL. The league was designed to give opportunities to talented players who had not secured NFL contracts. His position as a defensive back tested him against experienced competition, including former NFL players.
Unfortunately, the XFL season ended prematurely in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This halted his momentum and forced him to search for new football opportunities. Despite setbacks, Darez continued to attend tryouts and free-agent workouts, keeping his dream alive.
His time with the Wildcats may have been brief, but it reflected the determination and adaptability needed to survive in professional sports outside the NFL.
Playing Style and Strengths
As a defensive back, Darez Diggs relied on quick reflexes, speed, and mental awareness. His job required him to read offenses, cover wide receivers, and execute open-field tackles. His ability to backpedal, change direction rapidly, and physically contest receivers demonstrated the toughness needed for the position.
Even though statistics from his career remain incomplete, especially from community college and the shortened XFL season, his value as a player extends beyond numbers. His determination and love for the sport highlight qualities that can’t be measured on paper.
Legal Troubles
In May 2023, Darez Diggs was involved in a violent elevator altercation, which later brought him to court. In April 2024, he received a two-year probation sentence along with 20 hours of community service after pleading no contest to a felony charge.
This incident put unwanted attention on him and his family, often tying his name to his more famous brothers in media coverage. The case highlighted how fame within a family can amplify scrutiny. Despite the setback, Darez is working on fulfilling his legal obligations and striving to grow personally from the experience.
Personal Life
Compared to his brothers, Darez keeps a lower profile. He is known to be private about his relationships and lifestyle. His main public presence comes through Instagram under the handle @marseandiggs, where he has built a following of over 26,000 people. His posts often showcase fashion choices, family moments, and glimpses into life beyond football.
Fashion has become a passion for Darez, leading him to launch his own clothing line called Blue Boii. This entrepreneurial venture provides him with financial opportunities outside of sports and highlights his creative side.
Net Worth and Ventures
While Stefon and Trevon have accumulated millions through NFL contracts, Darez Diggs has more modest finances. His net worth is significantly smaller, reflecting the pay gap between athletes in the NFL and those in smaller leagues like the XFL.
Despite this, his clothing line and social media presence demonstrate his ability to diversify income streams. In today’s world, athletes at every level can use their personal brand to create opportunities, and Darez is no exception.
Current Situation
With Stefon Diggs moving to the Houston Texans in 2024, the family’s football story continues to evolve. Meanwhile, Darez remains focused on completing his probation terms while seeking new football and business opportunities.
His connections to Morgan State University may also lead him toward future roles in mentoring or coaching. His experience across multiple programs and leagues provides him with insight valuable to young athletes.
Final Thoughts
The journey of Darez Diggs is a testament to resilience, determination, and individuality. While his brothers shine on the NFL stage, he has carved his own unique chapter through college football, professional stints, business ventures, and personal growth.
His path shows that not every football player’s story ends with NFL stardom. Instead, it reflects the broader reality of athletes who dedicate themselves to the sport while navigating challenges on and off the field. Darez Diggs embodies the struggles and triumphs of countless players striving to leave their mark on football in their own way.
FAQs About Darez Diggs
Q1: Who is Darez Diggs?
Darez Diggs, also known as Mar’Sean Diggs, is the brother of NFL stars Stefon and Trevon Diggs. He is a defensive back who played college football and had a stint in the XFL with the Los Angeles Wildcats.
Q2: Did Darez Diggs play in the NFL?
No, Darez did not make it to the NFL like his brothers. He played college football at UAB and Morgan State and later joined the XFL in 2020.
Q3: What legal issues has Darez Diggs faced?
In 2023, he was involved in an elevator altercation that led to a felony charge. In 2024, he was sentenced to two years of probation and community service.
Q4: What business ventures is Darez Diggs involved in?
Outside football, he launched his own clothing brand called Blue Boii and actively engages with fans through Instagram.
Q5: What is the net worth of Darez Diggs?
His net worth is modest compared to his NFL brothers, reflecting the difference between NFL salaries and those in smaller leagues like the XFL.