When Kendrick Bourne signed with the Patriots before the 2021 season, it was viewed by many as a home run. After a strong first season in New England, Bourne's time in Foxborough has been marred by inconsistency and injuries.
The Patriots' wide receiver room was one of the league's worst last season, and the organization addressed that position heavily via the draft and free agency.
A healthy Stefon Diggs will clearly be New England's top wideout this season, while rookie Kyle Williams had a strong minicamp. DeMario Douglas is poised for a strong campaign, and Mack Hollins will be a wild card after coming over from the Bills.
So, where does that leave Bourne? Fighting for a spot on the depth chart with the likes of Ja'Lynn Polk and Javon Baker. The Patriots could use a veteran voice like Bourne in the locker room, but what he does in July or August will be make-or-break time.
This year's training camp is the most important of Kendrick Bourne's career
After a 55-catch season in 2021, Bourne's numbers have tailed off since, with his top output since then coming in 2023 (37 catches, 406 yards, four touchdowns). He only had 28 receptions on 38 targets last season.
New England's wide receiver room is obviously crowded, and Mike Vrabel is going to have to make some tough decisions come the end of August. Of course, everything hinges on injuries and performance, but Yahoo Sports' Nelson Hubbell said recently that it wouldn't be a shock if the Patriots moved on from Bourne during the preseason.
If the Patriots release Bourne, they would save $6.3 million while incurring only a $1.4 million dead cap hit. It also wouldn't be a surprise to see the Patriots try to trade him to acquire some draft capital for 2026 and beyond.
That being said, Bourne needs to have a great training camp and preseason if he wants to stick around. He's turning 30 years old this season and is entering the second half of his career, and could be a vital voice for second-year quarterback Drake Maye and the young receivers, such as fellow Eastern Washington alum Efton Chism III.
He needs to approach this training camp like it's his last. If not, he'll be looking for a new home come the end of August.
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