Patriots Roster Projection: Rookie WR Kayshon Boutte On Bubble?

The Athletic is predicting rookie draft pick Kayshon Boutte won't make the New England Patriots' 53-man roster.

Despite his impressive career at LSU and being selected in the 2023 NFL Draft, receiver Kayshon Boutte faces uncertainty regarding his chances of making the New England Patriots' final roster. At least that's according to The Athletic, which is leaving him of its 53-man projection because of another rookie.

"In spring workouts, he was outplayed by fellow sixth-round pick Demario Douglas, whose sudden movements seem like a good fit for Bill O'Brien's offense," The Athletic writes.

Throughout his tenure at LSU spanning three seasons, Boutte recorded 131 receptions for 1,782 yards and 16 touchdowns. His most impressive performance was against Ole Miss in 2020, where he made 14 receptions for an SEC record of 308 yards.

Despite high expectations, the 2022 season fell short of Boutte's previous performances. He recorded 48 catches for 538 yards and achieved a career-low two touchdowns. Additionally, his lackluster performance at the Scouting Combine led to Boutte falling to the sixth round of the draft.

The Patriots also added Douglas, a receiver from Liberty University, in the sixth round. This selection further adds to the already crowded Patriots' receiver room. Additionally, there are rumors of the Patriots potentially signing free-agent receiver DeAndre Hopkins. With potential developments looming, it seems that Boutte may find himself as the odd man out.

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