FOXBORO — Stefon Diggs addressed reporters Friday for the first time since it came to light earlier this week that the Patriots’ wide receiver is facing criminal charges.

Diggs made it clear he would only answer football questions but did briefly address the past week, saying, “obviously it’s a different time, very emotional time, taken back by some things that’s been going on.”

“Dealing with everything, it’s definitely an open case, so I can’t even say anything about it,” Diggs said.

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Diggs is facing criminal charges stemming from an alleged incident on Dec. 2 with his personal chef. The 32-year-old receiver is charged with felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery charges, according to court documents. An arraignment is set for Jan. 23, two days before the AFC Championship.

Diggs informed the Patriots that he “categorically denies the allegations,” the team said through a statement on Tuesday.

“We support Stefon. We will continue to gather information and will cooperate fully with the appropriate authorities and the NFL as necessary,” the organization added. “Out of respect for all parties involved, and given that this is an ongoing legal matter, we will have no further comment at this time.”

The NFL released a statement on Wednesday, saying Diggs is “eligible to play at this time.” There was speculation earlier in the week that Diggs could be put on paid leave on the NFL’s Commissioner Exempt List.

“Pursuant to the Personal Conduct Policy, consideration for placement on the Commissioner Exempt List may be considered following formal charges in the form of an indictment by a grand jury, the filing of charges by a prosecutor, or an arraignment in a criminal court,” the league’s statement continued.

Diggs was asked Friday how the Patriots guard against distractions.

“It’s kind of been a thing throughout the year,” Diggs said. “We all deal with life stuff, family stuff … it’s just being a football team, it’s hard, you band together, you lean on your brothers, you lean on the people you spend the most time with. For me, I’ve been dealing with this (expletive) my whole life. Nothing new to me. I just gotta role with the punches, stay as positive as I can. It’s definitely something you’ve got to adjust to, but I’m good for whatever.”

Diggs went on to say that his focus is “where it’s been at.”