As the New England Patriots prep for their preseason opener against the Washington Commanders this Friday, one veteran wide receiver likely won't be suiting up.
On Monday, head coach Mike Vrabel told reporters that Kendrick Bourne, entering his ninth season, isn't expected to be available this week after being "rolled up on" during a Friday scrimmage, per ESPN Patriots reporter Mike Reiss.
Mike Vrabel says WR Kendrick Bourne was rolled up on in the Friday scrimmage and doesn’t expect to see him this week.
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) August 4, 2025
Vrabel adds that CBs Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis III aren’t expected to practice today or against Washington on Wednesday.
Kendrick Bourne’s Spot on 53-Man Roster Is Far from Guaranteed
The setback could be costly for Bourne. This offseason, the Patriots signed wideout Stefon Diggs to a three-year, $63.5 million contract. New England also has a pair of potential rising stars in 2023 sixth-rounders DeMario Douglas and Kayshon Boutte.
The Patriots also added veteran Mack Hollins in free agency and selected Kyle Williams in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Second-year pro Ja'Lynn Polk returned to practice last week after undergoing offseason shoulder surgery, and while he could also have an uphill climb to making the 53-man roster, New England might be more reluctant to part with him than Bourne, who turned 30 on Monday.
Bourne, a 2017 undrafted free agent, appeared in 12 games (nine starts) for the Patriots last season. He ended 2024 with 28 receptions and 305 yards. Both were his lowest since his rookie season.
Bourne began his career with the San Francisco 49ers and signed a three-year, $22.5 million contract with the Patriots during 2021 free agency. In March 2024, he re-signed for another three-year deal worth up to $33 million.
His best season came in 2021, when he had 55 receptions, 800 yards, and five touchdowns.
Injuries are nothing new to Bourne. In October 2023, he tore his ACL, ending his season after eight games. Bourne began 2024 on the physically unable to perform list while recovering.
With Bourne sidelined once again, fringe roster candidates at wide receiver, including 2025 undrafted free agents Efton Chism III and Jeremiah Webb, should get more playing time against the Commanders, possibly moving up the depth chart with promising performances.
Bourne can't afford a prolonged absence. But even if he returns relatively soon, his fate might already be sealed.