The New England Patriots are expected to acquire A.J. Brown in the coming weeks, and it could mean one of their current pass catchers will be on the move.
Kayshon Boutte has not shown up to voluntary offseason workouts and has been working out on his own, per ESPN's Mike Reiss. Yes, the workouts are voluntary, but it is worth noting that Boutte stands to lose plenty of opportunities if Brown is indeed traded to the Patriots. He has sparked some trade rumors with his absence, and NFL insider Albert Breer thinks he could be available for a late-round pick.
"Patriots WR Kayshon Boutte, I think, could be had for a fifth- or sixth-round draft pick right now, if anyone has an interest in him," Breer wrote on Monday.
Boutte played well last season, but only had 551 yards and 46 targets. He played in 14 games, but it's safe to assume that his target share will decrease with the arrival of eventual Brown. The Patriots also signed Romeo Doubs in the offseason, so Boutte would enter the season as the No. 3 receiver if the Patriots pull off a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Boutte will be a free agent after next season, and if he is frustrated with his role, the Patriots could move him. He scored six touchdowns last season and is talented enough to be a No. 2 option on a team. If the Patriots get the sense that they will let him walk after the season ends, trading him would be wise.
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