This seems to be the hot topic of the week during this NFL/Patriots offseason, but we have another report today that the Patriots are trying to "do right" by Kayshon Boutte and get him to a different team where he can have a better opportunity to succeed and earn a big contract.
This is according to Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer, who adds that the Patriots' wide receiver room could have some chemistry or culture issues if Boutte can't get the touches and yards that he desires. Breer reported months ago that the Patriots have been trying to trade Boutte for a Day 3 draft pick, but they haven't been able to find any takers.
Breer added today that if the Patriots had received a call offering a fifth-round draft pick for Boutte, he would be gone. But obviously, that wasn't the case.
The logjam of A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs being ahead of Boutte on the depth chart would prohibit Boutte from finding the success he desires. As we wrote yesterday, Kayshon Boutte should WANT to be traded, and this reiterates that he likely will be.
The Patriots are trying to get him into the right situation while also getting the correct return for the player. It's possible that they have to wait until deeper into training camp for an injury to take place or for more wide receivers to come off the market.
One wide receiver who is still available is Stefon Diggs, who will likely join a contending team on a favorable contract sometime during training camp.
I just wanted to reiterate that we appreciate everything Kayshon Boutte has done in New England, especially his one-handed playoff grab that basically sealed the game against the Texans. Boutte has been a great receiver in helping Drake Maye develop, and he seems to catch everything thrown in his direction.
Wherever he ends up, we will be rooting for him to find success.