NFL Trade Rumors: Best Landing Spot For Patriots Kendrick Bourne

Kendrick Bourne has emerged as one of the New England Patriots’ top trade candidates ahead of the Nov. 5 deadline, as the team prioritizes building around rookie quarterback Drake Maye. 

With a potential contract out in 2025, the 29-year-old wide receiver could be flipped for draft picks, which would support the Patriots’ rebuilding efforts. 

Bourne has been limited this season to just four catches for 29 yards in three games after recovering from a torn ACL, but he demonstrated his playmaking ability in 2021 with 800 receiving yards. 

Despite significant interest from teams, NFL Media reports it would take a "large deal" to move Bourne, as the Patriots still see him as a potential security blanket for Maye. 

Bourne himself has voiced a desire to stay, saying, “This is where I want to be… I want to be a part of it when it starts popping.”

Kendrick Bourne HAS to make this catch. Unbelievable. pic.twitter.com/KLORA6le2f

— Ben Brown 🌻 (@BenBrownPL) October 27, 2024

The Pittsburgh Steelers have emerged as one of the most logical landing spots for Bourne. While sitting at 6-2, the Steelers are eyeing playoff contention but have struggled with depth in their passing attack, which leans heavily on George Pickens (548 receiving yards). 

No other receiver has surpassed 264 yards, and the team’s reliance on tight ends and running backs for production further emphasizes their need for more firepower. 

Bourne’s experience and ability to exploit single coverage could help diversify Pittsburgh’s offense, making him a key piece as they look to compete with AFC contenders like the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens.

Kendrick Bourne was glad to get a win, but clearly wasn’t happy with his performance today.

“I hated that game. I just played so bad.” https://t.co/6o1O1zVFx5 pic.twitter.com/fuQKtz9ZiM

— Nicole Menner (@NicoleMenner) October 27, 2024

While Bourne’s future remains uncertain, he is one of several Patriots players being floated in trade discussions as New England explores ways to gain draft capital. 

If the Steelers or another team can meet the Patriots’ demands, Bourne could be on the move before the deadline, benefiting both sides: New England would acquire assets for its rebuild, while Pittsburgh would add a much-needed secondary playmaker to its receiving corps.

Photo Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images