The New England Patriots are facing a difficult challenge of finding enough roster spots for their crowded wide receiver group. According to Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay, veteran wide receiver Kendrick Bourne is one player at risk of being cut.

“With Bourne soon turning 30 and due to make $5.5 million in base salary, New England can part ways with the aging veteran in exchange for $6.3 million in cap relief and a paltry $1.4 million dead cap hit,” Kay said.

The Patriots have nine receivers competing for limited roster spots, with Bourne sitting among the most vulnerable.

The veteran wideout is entering his eighth NFL season, totaling just 305 yards and one touchdown on 28 receptions last year—his least productive season since his rookie campaign.

According to Kay, Bourne carries a $5.5 million base salary for 2025. Releasing him would offer the Patriots $6.3 million in cap savings with a dead-cap hit of just $1.4 million. That financial benefit, paired with the draft capital spent on more cost-efficient young receivers, makes Bourne an appealing cut candidate.

Kay also notes that Bourne’s experience is beneficial to a younger group, but the Patriots should place more value on upgrading Drake Maye’s supporting cast. This leaves room for emerging receivers like Demario Douglas, Kayshon Boutte, and 2025 third‑round pick Kyle Williams to showcase their talent.

As training camp approaches, Bourne may need to prove his value to stay on the roster or risk being one of New England’s early offseason cap casualties.

However, Kay does explain that Bourne could provide value to a team that has needs help and veteran experience in their wide receiver room.