The New England Patriots are all set in the passing game.
At least, that’s the case with the starters.
They gave Stefon Diggs a big-money deal, and he’s now expected to be out there in Week 1.
They also have third-round pick Kyle Williams, one of the most intriguing pass-catchers in this class, all while Demario Douglas does his thing in the slot.
It all looks a little bleak from there.
Nevertheless, team insider Mike Reiss believes that the recent injuries might work in Kendrick Bourne‘s favor.
“… with Williams and Chism also managing injuries… and Baker squarely on the bubble himself, it could give Bourne’s staying power some added pop,” Reiss said.
.@MikeReiss believes recent receiver injuries/performances could create a path for Kendrick Bourne to make the #Patriots roster.
“… with Williams and Chism also managing injuries… and Baker squarely on the bubble himself, it could give Bourne's staying power some added pop.” pic.twitter.com/DIKeDQrEzJ
— Carlos A. Lopez (@LosTalksPats) August 24, 2025
Before this string of injuries, Bourne was actually a cut or trade candidate.
He signed a three-year, $19.5 million contract with the Patriots last March, but with Kayshon Boutte and Mack Hollins also there and the surge of undrafted free agent Efton Chism III, he was no longer a lock to make the team.
As things stand now, it looks like Chism has done more than enough to get himself a spot on the roster, and he should be WR4 to start the season at the very least.
Bourne hasn’t always justified his salary with his production, but the Patriots might be stuck with him for the time being.
Mike Vrabel wants to lead this team back to the mountaintop, and the offense will look much better this season.
With TreVeyon Henderson and Rhamondre Stevenson doing their thing out of the backfield, Drake Maye will have no shortage of options to pass the ball to.
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