It's obvious that the [New England Patriots](https://nesn.com/new-england-patriots) are trying to do something with wide receiver Kayshon Boutte.
Boutte, who has proven that he can be an above-average player and even a WR2 for this organization at times, requested a trade during the offseason and doesn't exactly seem too happy at times in New England.
It's tough to get a real feel for whether he still wants to be there, as he says some polarizing things, but reports said he requested a trade. The Patriots have also treated him that way, as he played with backups during New England's first preseason game.
According to the latest, they may have wanted to showcase him, especially to the Indianapolis Colts, who have dealt with their fair share of injuries, including to Alec Pierce, their star receiver.
“Under most circumstances, it would have been a surprise to see Boutte start with the backups, but it looks like the Patriots are trying to enhance his value for a possible trade.
“And, the Colts seemed like the perfect trade partner, given Alex Pierce’s absence due to left ankle surgery. Word is, they’ve also been kicking the tires on receiver help,” Karen Guregian [wrote](https://www.masslive.com/patriots/2026/08/kayshon-boutte-still-looks-like-odd-man-out-of-patriots-receivers-room-karen-guregian.html).
The only unfortunate part for Boutte and the Patriots is that if both sides want a trade to happen, and the Colts are a legitimate suitor, he didn't do himself many favors Thursday night.
He didn't do much of anything, at least nothing that would have impressed anyone in Indianapolis.
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