The New England Patriots needed to add firepower to their wide receivers.
They spent money to sign Stefon Diggs and Mack Hollins, and then landed a potential steal by selecting Kyle Williams in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
They also signed several undrafted rookies to make a statement about how displeased they were with their collection of pass catchers.
Now, it looks like Kayshon Boutte is improving.
He’s gotten a big role in training camp, and Patriots wide receiver coach Todd Downing recently had nothing but praise for the third-year player.
“In the offseason, [he] was kinda figuring a couple things out about this offense. Decided to make a commitment to doing things the right way … and I think you’ve seen the results. … He’s put in extra time and it’s showing,” Downing said, Carlos A. Lopez.
#Patriots WRs coach Todd Downing on WR Kayshon Boutte:
“In the offseason, [he] was kinda figuring a couple things out about this offense. Decided to make a commitment to doing things the right way… and I think you’ve seen the results… He’s put in extra time and it’s showing.” pic.twitter.com/bJbF9UM71H
— Carlos A. Lopez (@LosTalksPats) August 13, 2025
The Patriots selected Boutte in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft.
He wasn’t a factor as a rookie with two receptions for 19 yards.
Though he started last season as a depth piece, he wound up leading the team in wide receiver snaps.
He developed a strong chemistry with quarterback Drake Maye and had 43 receptions for 589 yards.
He’s not likely to be the primary weapon now that Diggs is there, but with early reports of an improved offense under coordinator Josh McDaniels, it wouldn’t be shocking to see Boutte take another step forward.
This team has struggled for too long, and whoever gets the job done will get snaps, regardless of where he was taken in the draft.
NEXT: Stefon Diggs Reveals His Status For Week 1
