The New England Patriots are experiencing a highly disappointing season, marked by a lack of standout performances. However, one bright spot had been the resurgence of Kendrick Bourne as a wide receiver. Unfortunately, his promising comeback was cut short when he tore his ACL during the Week 8 loss to the Miami Dolphins, prematurely ending his season.
Before his injury, Bourne had been the Patriots’ top-performing wide receiver, amassing 37 receptions, 406 yards, and 4 touchdowns. The team has struggled significantly in his absence. The positive development is that Bourne underwent surgery on his injury and has initiated the rehabilitation process in Los Angeles, focusing on preparing for the 2024 season.
While this is encouraging for Bourne and Patriots fans, there is uncertainty about his future with the team. Bourne’s contract concludes after this season, and amid the current turmoil in New England, it remains unclear whether they will opt to re-sign him. Additionally, Bourne faced challenges during the 2022 season, spending much of it in the doghouse after an impressive 2021 campaign, with reasons still not fully understood.
#Patriots WR Kendrick Bourne had successful surgery Wednesday on his ACL performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache.
Bourne is currently doing rehab in L.A. with a variety of NFL veterans. pic.twitter.com/vEuanMjMGJ
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) November 16, 2023
The ACL injury is likely to impact Bourne’s value in the free-agent market, as he was on track for a significant contract year before the setback. Teams may approach him with more caution due to the injury, raising questions about whether he has already played his last game for the Patriots as he embarks on a lengthy rehabilitation process.
