Patriots faced difficult roster cuts with an oversized wide receiver group that forced tough choices. Kendrick Bourne was released after the deadline despite prior success in Josh McDaniels' offense and reported interest from multiple teams. Bourne met with Washington and San Francisco, and both teams reportedly drew up contracts prior to meetings. No deal was finalized during recent visits, and Bourne elected to sit out Week 1 while he weighs options and determines the best team fit. The decision-making process delays an immediate signing as Bourne evaluates offers and personal preferences.
When the one and only roster cut deadline was nearing last month, it was beyond clear what some of the toughest decisions were going to be for the Patriots. Perhaps the most controversial was how they would narrow down the wide receiver room, as they had 11 rostered players for most of training camp and the preseason. A few names were considered locks, mainly Stefon Diggs, DeMario Douglas, and rookie Kyle Williams.
It ultimately led to Kendrick Bourne being cut after the deadline, despite having been successful in Josh McDaniels' offense during the 2021 season, becoming one of the more shocking decisions by the Mike Vrabel regime to date. It seemed like a missed opportunity for the team to trade one of their more valuable players, especially since it was quickly reported that several teams were interested in signing Bourne right when his release was announced.
According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, no deals were signed between either team and Bourne this past week, and he is now expected to sit out Week 1 to continue weighing his options. Free agent WR Kendrick Bourne has elected to sit this week out and weigh his options over the weekend and see which team is the best fit, source said. He recently visited the #Commanders and #49ers. pic.twitter.com/oviuiplEnY- Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 3, 2025
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