Patriots’ WR Shakeup Looms: Kendrick Bourne Could Be Odd Man Out After Stefon Diggs Signing
The New England Patriots made headlines this offseason by signing veteran wide receiver Stefon Diggs, giving rookie quarterback Drake Maye a legitimate No. 1 target. However, despite Diggs’ arrival, it’s clear that New England still needs more offensive firepower. With the 2025 NFL Draft fast approaching, many expect the Patriots to further address their lack of dynamic playmakers — a move that could create a major shakeup within the wide receiver depth chart.
One player potentially affected by these changes is Kendrick Bourne, one of the team’s longest-tenured veterans. According to Ryan McLaughlin of Musket Fire, Bourne’s spot on the roster could be in jeopardy if the Patriots continue to add new weapons this offseason.
“Diggs is all but penciled in as Drake Maye’s top target,” McLaughlin wrote. “And Mack Hollins, who joins from Buffalo, will be in the mix for the No. 2 or 3 role along with several others. So where does that leave Bourne? It could leave him on the outside looking in.”
Bourne, who joined New England in 2021, made an immediate impact in his first year, recording 55 catches for 800 yards and five touchdowns. But since then, his production has declined. In 2022, he struggled to find consistency, and last season, after recovering from a torn ACL, he managed only 28 receptions for 305 yards and one touchdown in 12 games.
While Bourne remains a respected locker room presence and veteran leader, the Patriots are clearly focused on building a young, dynamic core around Maye. If they continue to bolster the receiver room in the draft, Bourne may unfortunately find himself as the odd man out when training camp begins.
