Patriots might have a Kayshon Boutte problem
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Patriots might have a Kayshon Boutte problem originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New England Patriots' offseason workouts are voluntary.
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Kayshon Boutte is taking that to heart.
Boutte isn't at the workouts, according to ESPN's Mike Reiss. Reiss adds that Boutte is instead working out on his own.
It's curious timing for Boutte, a guy who has been involved in trade rumors this offseason.
The Patriots let Stefon Diggs go, but they did sign Romeo Doubs. If they trade for A.J. Brown for the Eagles as many expect, it would push Boutte into a smaller role in 2026 than he had in 2025.
Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio added some context in a new article on Sunday:
"It’s unclear why Boutte isn’t there. The sixth-round pick in the 2023 draft is currently eligible for a new contract, and he’s entering the final year of his rookie deal at a base salary of $3.674 million. He’s possibly withholding services while he angles for a financial reward."
Boutte turned 24 in May, so he probably has a bright future in front of him.
The former sixth-round pick is coming off a career-high six touchdowns that came as part of 33 catches and 551 yards. Boutte had a remarkable regular season feat -- of his 33 catches, they all went for either a first down (27) or a touchdown (6).
The year prior, he had 43 catches for 589 yards. Boutte seems to have good chemistry with Drake Maye.
Of course, his workout absence could have nothing to do with him being upset with how things are going.
But it's something that is at least worth noting. It could have some significant meaning.
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