The Patriots have reportedly retained one of their most productive pass-catchers just ahead of the start of NFL free agency. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that New England is re-signing wide receiver Kendrick Bourne to a three-year contract worth up to $33 million.
Bourne, 28, had been expected to reach the open market this week, with the league's legal tampering period scheduled to begin at 12 p.m. The deal gives both sides some certainty before the rush of signings begins.
He has been one of the few bright spots for a New England offense that has struggled in recent years. Across three seasons with the Patriots, Bourne has caught 127 passes for 1,640 yards and 10 touchdowns in 41 games.
His 2023 campaign was on track to be a career year before it ended early. Bourne had 37 receptions, 406 yards and four touchdowns in eight games when he tore his ACL during a Week 8 road loss to the Dolphins. The season was a difficult one for the team overall.
Speaking on "NFL Total Access" on Thursday, Bourne said he expects to be cleared for the start of the 2024 season. He said he consulted surgeon Neal ElAttrache, who has operated on athletes including Tom Brady, Kobe Bryant and Shohei Ohtani. "My plan is to play Game 1," Bourne said. "And I believe I'm going to be ready. Where I'm at right now, I'm on track, ahead of schedule. I feel good."
Bourne first arrived in New England in 2021 on a three-year, $15 million contract. That first season he posted 55 catches, 800 yards and five touchdowns. In 2022 he fell out of favor with de-facto offensive coordinator Matt Patricia and saw limited playing time behind Nelson Agholor and Tyquan Thornton, before his bounce-back 2023 put him in line for a significant raise.
Negotiations were not without friction. Earlier on Sunday, CBS Sports' Josina Anderson reported a "notable gap" between the team and Bourne. Still, the receiver had said several times this offseason that he wanted to return. "The building itself, the organization itself, what they stand for, has helped me grow," he said, adding that the Patriots "hold a special place in my heart."
The move follows a reported three-year agreement on Friday with tight end Hunter Henry. With Henry and Bourne now reportedly signed through the 2026 season, New England is still expected to pursue more offensive help. ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported on Sunday that the Patriots are expected to "swing big" at Calvin Ridley, who may be the top wideout available.
