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5 Patriots Who Won't Return in 2025 With Season Officially Over

By Efstathios Savvidis

Nov 17, 2024; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Kendrick Bourne (84) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Los Angeles Rams during the first half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images
Nov 17, 2024; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Kendrick Bourne (84) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Los Angeles Rams during the first half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images / Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images
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3. Kendrick Bourne, WR

Kendrick Bourne signed with the Patriots in the 2021 offseason, instantly becoming a fan-favorite and a reliable target, recording 55 catches, 800 yards, and five touchdowns. After a down 2022 season, he replicated his 2021 play in 2023 with 37 catches, 406 yards, and four touchdowns in eight games before suffering a torn ACL. 

Although Bourne surprisingly re-signed with the Patriots last offseason, he hasn’t looked like his former self. In 12 games he recorded 28 catches, 305 yards, and one touchdown. Bourne, who turns 30 in August, is headed into his second season of a three-year, $33 million contract. 

The Patriots were one of the worst teams in the pass last season and don’t have a true number-one receiver. With the main goal of improving the talent around Maye this offseason, the Patriots could trade Bourne for a draft pick. The Patriots mulled trading Bourne during last year’s trade deadline and could end up trading him now. 

With Bourne’s team-friendly contract, other franchises could be interested in acquiring him for a draft pick. If the Patriots can get a Day 3 pick for Bourne, the Patriots should accept it as the team is in desperate need of young talent in all positions besides quarterback. 

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