New England Patriots wide receiver Kayshon Boutte has been the subject of trade rumors and speculation throughout the offseason. However, according to ESPN's Mike Reiss, the team is still internally planning for the talented wideout to have a significant role in the 2026 season.
The LSU product had 33 catches for 551 yards and six touchdowns last year. There have been concerns that those numbers could dip with a crowded receivers room in New England, including A.J. Brown, Romeo Doubs, DeMario Douglas, Mack Hollins, Efton Chism III and Kyle Williams.
“I talked to some people inside the Patriots, and they tell me, ‘Boutte’s gonna be a big part of what we do,’" Reiss said on The Pat McAfee Show. "I think where that could become a little bit of a challenge is if another team does come calling and is willing to give them something of significance. You still got A.J. Brown, Romeo Doubs, Pop Douglas, Mack Hollins, Kyle Williams, Efton Chism III. They’re all making plays throughout training camp, so it’s a very crowded receiver room.”
"The Patriots have seven receivers that could be on this roster..
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) August 12, 2026
They're telling me that Kayshon Boutte is gonna be a big part of what they do..
That could become a challenge if another team comes calling" ~ @MikeReiss#PMSLivepic.twitter.com/qt8Flwok2j
Boutte has been heavily involved at receiver in training camp, despite the new additions to the roster.
He is still arguably the team's best deep threat option, and his connection with third-year quarterback Drake Maye is better than it's ever been. With that said, one has to wonder what the response from the team would be if the right offer came across the trade table.
Boutte is currently in the final year of his contract, and a trade could get the team something in return for a player who might not be around for the foreseeable future.
Follow Patriots Wire on Twitter and Facebook.
This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Patriots insider shares crucial update on Kayshon Boutte trade talk