DEDHAM, Mass. — Opening statements and testimony began in the assault trial of Stefon Diggs, with his former live-in chef accusing the ex-New England Patriots receiver of slapping and choking her during a dispute at his home.

Jamila “Mila” Adams told jurors Diggs struck her and wrapped his arm around her neck, leaving her struggling to breathe. Defense attorney Andrew Kettlewell said the attack never happened, citing a lack of evidence and suggesting Adams had a financial motive. Prosecutors say the case centers on what occurred on Dec. 2.

Diggs, who has pleaded not guilty, faces felony strangulation and misdemeanor assault charges.

Elsewhere in football:

n Tyrod Taylor signed with the Green Bay Packers Monday as he gets an opportunity to back up quarterback Jordan Love in his 16th NFL season. The Packers signed Taylor and released Desmond Ridder. Green Bay needed to find a new backup quarterback after Malik Willis joined the Miami Dolphins as a free agent. The release of Ridder leaves Taylor and – as the two quarterbacks behind Love on the depth chart.

Chicago No. 1 pick waived

CHICAGO — The Chicago Sky waived point guard Hailey Van Lith after drafting her in the first round last year and signed guard Natasha Cloud on Monday.

Van Lith struggled after being drafted with the No. 11 overall pick. She averaged 3.5 points in 29 games following a standout career at Louisville, LSU and TCU.

Cloud has averaged 8.8 points, 3.3 rebounds and 5.3 assists in 10 seasons with Washington, Phoenix and New York. She averaged 10.1 points and 5.1 assists for the Liberty last season.

The Sky also waived second-round picks Maddy Westbeld and Aicha Coulibaly. The Sky went 10-34 and tied for last in the WNBA a year ago.

The Associated Press