Patriots Coach Provides Big Kendrick Bourne Update After Unexpected Benching
By Jovan Alford
Last week, the New England Patriots surprisingly decided to sit veteran wide receiver Kendrick Bourne against the Chicago Bears.
During the game, Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald reported Boure was informed the day before that he may not play. The reasoning behind the decision was to prioritize playing time for the young players.
Source: #Patriots WR Kendrick Bourne, who played 78% of the team's offensive snaps the last 2 games, was informed yesterday afternoon he may not play today as the staff prioritizes playing time for young players.
— Andrew Callahan (@_AndrewCallahan) November 10, 2024
Bourne is the only WR not to play through the first 5 drives. pic.twitter.com/aylDVTDJju
It was a puzzling decision as Bourne played 78% of the Pats’ offensive snaps in the previous two games. And one could make the case that he’s one of their best wide receivers.
On Thursday, New England offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt was asked about the veteran wide receiver, but his answer wasn’t convincing.
According to Doug Kyed of the Boston Herald, Van Pelt believes Bourne will be “a big part of us moving forward.” However, as Kyed pointed out, the Pats offensive coordinator mentioned three other wide receivers (Kayshon Boutte, Ja’Lynn Polk, and DeMario Douglas) before Bourne.
Patriots OC Alex Van Pelt believes WR Kendrick Bourne will be "a big part of us moving forward."
— Doug Kyed (@DougKyed) November 14, 2024
Kayshon Boutte, Ja'Lynn Polk and DeMario Douglas are the first three receivers he mentions, however.
It’s understandable why the Pats want to get their younger receivers as many reps as possible as they are the future of this offense. However, Bourne warrants some attention from opposing defenses and has played well over his four-year run with the Patriots.
The 29-year-old wide receiver was activated from the PUP list early last month and made his 2024 debut in Week 5 against the Miami Dolphins. Bourne has eight receptions (14 targets) for 70 yards in five games this season.
On Sunday, the Patriots' offense has a tough challenge against the Rams' defense. Therefore, they might want to get Bourne on the field.
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