Patriots Reportedly Discussing Extension With Upcoming Free Agent

The New England Patriots' offense was not great this season, no matter if it was Mac Jones or Bailey Zappe under center.

However, the team is still looking to keep some continuity on offense and wants to bring back one of their better receivers next season.

Patriots News: New England Has Been In Contact With Kendrick Bourne

Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald mentioned on a recent episode of the "Pats Interference Podcast" that the Patriots have been in contact with Kendrick Bourne about a potential contract extension. However, Callahan added that nothing is imminent at this time.

The 28-year-old receiver only played in eight games this season as he was placed on injured reserve in October after suffering a torn ACL. Despite missing the second half of the season, Bourne finished second on the team in receiving touchdowns (4) behind veteran tight end Hunter Henry, who had a New England-high six TDs.

Bourne had a solid three-year run with the Pats that saw him produce 127 receptions (173 targets) for 1,640 yards and 10 touchdowns. The veteran’s best season with New England happened in 2021 when Bourne had 55 receptions (70 targets) for 800 yards and five touchdowns.

One of the Patriots’ main focuses in free agency will be to re-sign Henry and Bourne. Spotrac projects Bourne’s market value to be a three-year, $14.6 million deal, with a calculated market value of a $4.8 million average annual salary.

With the Patriots potentially drafting a quarterback in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, the team would be smart to re-sign the veteran pass catcher, who should be ready for the start of training camp. If Bourne is 100% by Week 1 of the regular season, he will be a nice receiving target in the passing game, though more additions are needed to help whoever is under center in 2024.

More Patriots news and analysis: