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Feb 8, 2026; Santa Clara, CA, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Kayshon Boutte (9) against the Seattle Seahawks during Super Bowl LX at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Kayshon Boutte didn't do anything wrong.
Despite that, he'd likely have a lesser role with the New England Patriots in the 2026 NFL season than he did last year. And that's the kind of thing that makes someone want a trade.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported on his podcast that Boutte is interested in being traded away from the Pats this offseason.
ESPN's Mike Reiss previously reported that Boutte isn't taking part in New England's workouts this offseason, either, and is instead working out on his own.
There are a couple key factors at play here.
The first is that Boutte is entering the last season of his current contract. No matter what the Patriots' WR depth chart looked like, that might be the time for Boutte to plant his feet in the ground and seek a raise in a contract extension.
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Adding to that is the Patriots' approach to adding wideouts this offseason.
First, they signed Romeo Doubs in free agency from the Green Bay Packers, essentially replacing the cut Stefon Diggs.
Then, they traded for A.J. Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles.
Brown and Doubs are set to be the top-two receivers for Drake Maye, leaving Boutte to fight for the scraps behind them on the depth chart.
Boutte was reliable last season, turning every single one of his regular season catches into either a first down or a touchdown.
He'd likely receive solid trade interest if the Patriots do indeed shop him.
The Pats, coming off a Super Bowl appearance, probably wouldn't mind keeping Boutte around, but if he's unhappy, that might not be the best move.
It'll definitely be a storyline to monitor as the offseason continues.
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