As it does for most aging players, time weighed on Diggs’ mind. He will turn 32 in November, his prime fading into the rearview and a shrinking road ahead. Diggs has entrusted Patriots coach Mike Vrabel — someone who played 14 years in the NFL — with maximizing the rest of his playing days.

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.”