Patriots predicted to cut ties with $19.5 million pass catcher

The New England Patriots signed Mack Hollins and Stefon Diggs this offseason. However, those moves could end up forcing a veteran receiver off their roster.

The Patriots signed Kendrick Bourne to a three-year, $19.5 million contract before the 2024 season. He has spent the last four seasons with the team and has been a productive pass catcher. However, as the Patriots try to drastically improve their offense, he may no longer fit into their plans. The Athletic's Chad Graff predicted he would get cut before the season starts.

"This is probably where the most intense training camp competitions will take place," wrote Graff of the wide receiver situation in training camp. "Most teams keep five or six wide receivers on the roster, and the Pats will have a tough time getting down to just six. Diggs, Hollins, Williams, and Douglas should safely make the team, but everything else is up in the air. The guess for now is that the biggest battle is between Polk and Bourne. And the early prediction is that the Patriots bank on getting more out of Polk than Bourne, who will turn 30 during training camp."

Bourne has 1,945 yards and 11 touchdowns since joining the Patriots. Last season, he had just 305 yards. His best season with the Patriots came in 2021 when he had 800 yards and five touchdowns.

While he has been a steady contributor, he is aging, and the Patriots now have two other veterans to help mentor their younger players. Polk was a second-round pick last year, but struggled last season. He had just 12 catches in 15 games. Perhaps the additions of Diggs and Hollins will help him see easier coverage.

Bourne has a $7.7 million cap hit this season. He was brought in by the old regime, and Mike Vrabel could be more open to moving on from him. They would create $6.3 million in cap savings if they release him after June 1.