As the New England Patriots attempt to revamp an offense that placed last in several important offensive metrics in 2023, one familiar figure will return. On Sunday night, NFL insider Adam Schefter announced that pending free agent wide receiver Kendrick Bourne would return to the Patriots on a three-year contract for up to $33 million. Bourne missed New England’s final nine games last season after tearing his ACL in Week 8.
With New England set to choose a quarterback with their third overall choice, Bourne may provide senior leadership among an uninspiring receiving corps (as it is). If the Patriots do go out and bring in another wideout, like as Calvin Ridley, that group will be considerably upgraded from 2023.
Bourne has spent the previous three seasons in New England, after starting his career with the San Francisco 49ers.
Bourne previously indicated that he would “want to be back” with the Patriots and expects to be ready for Week 1 in 2024, despite coming off a season-ending injury.
“My plan is to play Game 1, and I believe I will be ready. I’m now on track, ahead of plan, and feeling excellent. So, I’m strengthening my confidence and leg strength so that I can be ready for Game 1.
