There is growing belief across the NFL that New England Patriots wide receiver Kayshon Boutte could be traded before the start of the 2026 season. Head coach Mike Vrabel has significantly revamped his wide receiver corps this offseason following the Patriots' Super Bowl loss to the Seattle Seahawks in February.
Offseason Additions and Potential Departures
Romeo Doubs joined the Patriots as a free agent after leaving the Green Bay Packers, and there is mounting momentum around a potential June 1 trade for A.J. Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles—a move that could be a game-changer for the organization. However, while much of the focus is on who Vrabel will bring in, attention is also turning to possible departures.
Stefon Diggs remains a free agent despite an impressive 2025 season in New England, though a reunion is not out of the question. Another player who could be heading for the exit is Kayshon Boutte. The 24-year-old has been working out away from the Patriots' facility during the early buildup to the new campaign. ESPN also highlighted that new Patriots wide receiver Romeo Doubs publicly praised several other wide receivers for helping him settle at his new team, without mentioning Boutte.
Boutte's Performance and Contract Situation
Boutte recorded 551 receiving yards and six touchdowns in 2025, playing as the WR2 behind Diggs. He also surpassed 500 yards in 2024, a season in which the Patriots struggled to a 4-13 record. Boutte is entering the final year of his rookie contract, with a base salary of approximately $3.6 million.
Potential Trade Destinations
The Chicago Bears have previously been linked with a move for Boutte. Head coach Ben Johnson is in need of bolstering his wide receiver options after the Bears traded DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills earlier this year. While there is excitement about Luther Burden and Romeo Odunze stepping up, most agree that another addition is necessary.
The Los Angeles Chargers are another team that some in the NFL believe could target a wide receiver. However, the Chargers drafted Brenan Thompson in the fourth round this year and have previously dismissed rumors that Quentin Johnston would leave, opting instead to exercise his fifth-year contract option.
