The New England Patriots wide receiver room could receive a much-needed boost in the near future.
Kendrick Bourne hasn’t practiced since tearing his ACL during a game against the Miami Dolphins last October. The Patriots receiver initially expected to be ready for training camp, but remained sidelined throughout the summer and began the season on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.
However, Sunday yielded positive news for Bourne, who’s eligible to be activated next week.
What’s the Latest on Kendrick Bourne’s ACL Recovery?
Bourne is expected to start practicing this week, according to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport. That meshes with recent statements from head coach Jerod Mayo, who’s said Bourne is progressing on schedule.
Other players set to return to practice this week: Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Odell Beckham Jr, Kendrick Bourne, Kendre Miller, D.J. Chark.
Several others on the PUP list or IR will return to practice in the weeks following this one. https://t.co/3cxFtKZWRV
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 29, 2024
Once Bourne starts practicing, the Patriots will have 21 days to add him to the 53-man roster. The veteran receiver will be forced to sit the remainder of the season if he isn’t activated by that deadline.
Whether Bourne is ready to fully participate remains to be seen, but everything is pointing in a positive direction, as he’s been spotted in the locker room without a knee brace.
Follow Pro Football Network for additional updates on Bourne’s status as next week progresses.
PFN Fantasy Analysis: Don’t Add Bourne Just Yet
Bourne was a solid fantasy football asset last season before he suffered an injury. In eight games, he caught 37 passes for 406 yards and four touchdowns and was on pace for over 100 targets.
Of course, that was with Mac Jones at quarterback. New England’s offense is now led by Jacoby Brissett, with rookie Drake Maye waiting in the wings. Neither has played with Bourne, so it could take a while for chemistry to develop.
If Bourne reaches his ceiling, he could be a decent Flex option, particularly in PPR leagues.
Former 49ers WR Kendrick Bourne seems hyped to be back in the Bay as his Patriots get set to take on the Niners on Sunday 🔥 pic.twitter.com/XfXSfqXMkF
— OurSF49ers (@OurSf49ers) September 28, 2024
With all that said, fantasy managers shouldn’t start any pass catcher in New England’s offense until further notice.
Brissett totaled just 368 yards and one touchdown in the first three games, largely due to the struggles of a patchwork offensive line. The passing game will be extremely limited until the Patriots figure things out on the O-line.
Moreover, there’s no guarantee Bourne would have an immediate role in the offense. He could be behind both DeMario Douglas and rookie Ja’Lynn Polk on the depth chart. And we still don’t even know whether he’ll be activated next week.
Given all the uncertainties, fantasy managers shouldn’t be in any rush to add Bourne to their rosters.
