Robert Kraft Eyes Receiver Changes for 2024
New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft is looking to shake up the team’s receiver room for the upcoming season. One potential casualty could be Hunter Renfrow, a one-time Pro Bowl wide receiver for the Las Vegas Raiders. The Raiders may be forced to cut Renfrow due to salary cap constraints, making him an attractive target for the Patriots. Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox suggests that the Patriots, who had one of the weakest receiving corps in the league last season, could be a team to watch in pursuit of Renfrow. With a new quarterback expected to join the team this offseason, head coach Jerod Mayo is eager to upgrade the receiver position.
Renfrow, 28, could save the Raiders a significant amount of money, up to $11.8 million in salary cap space after June 1. This aligns well with the Patriots’ salary cap situation, which currently stands at $67.48 million. Renfrow is currently under a 2-year, $32.32 million deal with the Raiders. However, he may need to sign a short-term, prove-it deal to find another opportunity. Despite underperforming in recent years with the Raiders, Renfrow has the potential to contribute to another team’s receiving corps.
In 2023, Renfrow recorded 25 catches for 255 yards, and in 2022, he had 36 receptions for 300 yards and two touchdowns. However, in 2021, he showcased his abilities with 103 catches for 1,038 yards and nine touchdowns. His first two seasons in the NFL also showed promise, with 56 catches for 656 yards and two touchdowns in 2020, and 49 grabs for 605 yards and four touchdowns as a rookie in 2019.
The Raiders have already expressed interest in parting ways with Renfrow, as reported by Knox. In 2023, they attempted to trade him to the New Orleans Saints, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
New England Patriots Wide Receiver Situation: Bourne Wants to Return, Reagor’s Future Uncertain
In a recent interview with ESPN’s Mike Reiss, Kendrick Bourne expressed his desire to return to the New England Patriots for the upcoming season. Bourne, who has been with the team for the past year, spoke highly of the organization, stating that it has helped him grow as a player. However, he also acknowledged the uncertainty of free agency and the possibility of not returning.
During the 2023 season, Bourne’s performance was not outstanding, with 37 catches for 406 yards and four touchdowns. He currently has a 3-year, $15 million deal with the Patriots, and it is estimated that he could command up to $4.8 million annually in a new contract.
Jalen Reagor, another wide receiver on the Patriots roster, is also facing uncertainty in his future with the team. Reagor, who signed a 1-year, $1 million deal, had a modest season with seven catches for 138 yards and a touchdown. Additionally, Tre Nixon, an exclusive rights free agent, is also on an expiring contract.
The Patriots currently have six wide receivers under contract for the 2024 season, including JuJu Smith-Schuster, DeVante Park, Tyquan Thornton, Demario Douglas, T.J. Luther, and Kayshon Boutte. However, Boutte’s future with the team is in question due to illegal gambling charges.
Bourne, who suffered an ACL tear in Week 2 of the 2023 season, is making progress in his recovery. Despite the challenges he faces, he remains determined and optimistic about his successful return to the field.
In conclusion, the New England Patriots’ wide receiver room may undergo some changes this offseason. While Bourne hopes to stay with the team, Reagor’s future is uncertain. The team also has several other wide receivers under contract, but Boutte’s legal issues may impact his status. As the offseason progresses, it will be interesting to see how the Patriots address their wide receiver situation.