After a long offseason that featured numerous changes, the New England Patriots will begin training camp in seven days. All eyes will be on the offense as the Patriots emphasized improving the supporting cast around quarterback Drake Maye.
Last season, the Patriots had one of the worst offenses in the league, ranking last in passing yards, 31st in passing touchdowns, and 30th in points scored. Tight end Hunter Henry led the team in receiving, posting 66 receptions, 674 yards, and two touchdowns, but there wasn't much else to write home about.
With Josh McDaniels now at offensive coordinator, along with new additions Stefon Diggs, Mack Hollins, and Kyle Williams, the Patriots hope that the aerial offense will be much improved. The addition of these three puts the Patriots at 12 receivers heading into training camp, though, making it difficult for a certain fan favorite to secure a roster spot.
Patriots WR Kendrick Bourne Likely Won’t Make Team
In just a short time into his tenure, Kendrick Bourne quickly became a fan favorite amongst Patriots fans. It wasn’t just Bourne’s impact that made him a fan favorite; it was his positive attitude and joyous personality that made him a beloved player.
Even though his tenure has had its highs and lows, he’s always been a team-first player and a leader for the younger receivers. Unfortunately, his off-the-field impact doesn’t guarantee him a roster spot.
Bourne had his worst season as a Patriot last year, posting 28 receptions, 305 yards, and one touchdown in 12 games. Bourne didn’t look like his old self, which is in part due to suffering a torn ACL midway through the 2023 season and lacking the explosiveness he once had.
With an entirely new coaching staff and the Patriots currently having 12 receivers, it puts Bourne at a disadvantage to make the team. Even though he has familiarity with McDaniels, Bourne must display his performance before going down with the ACL injury if he wants a shot at making the roster.
The current locks to make the team are Diggs, Williams, and DeMario Douglas, potentially leaving only two or three more spots. Bourne, who turns 30 in August, will have to outplay younger options such as Kayshon Boutte and Ja’Lynn Polk to take the last spot.
Even if it’s not Bourne, the Patriots will have to make a tough decision on which receivers they’ll release. If they do part ways with Bourne, the Patriots will save $6.3 million in cap space, according to Spotrac, meaning a split could be tempting if he doesn't prove his worth sooner rather than later.