The New England Patriots are reportedly exploring trade options for wide receiver Kayshon Boutte as the team faces a logjam at the position. Sources indicate that the 23-year-old receiver could be on the move to the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for a draft pick, potentially as early as this offseason.
Boutte, drafted by the Patriots in 2023, has shown flashes of promise, finishing his second season with 43 receptions for 589 yards and three touchdowns in 2024. Despite his potential, the Patriots’ wide receiver room is now one of the deepest in the league, with established starters Stefon Diggs, Kyle Williams, and Demario Douglas leading the charge. This depth, coupled with the development of key backups like Kendrick Bourne and Ja’Lynn Polk, has left little room for Boutte to secure a prominent role on the team.
The Need for Space
With the addition of multiple receivers in recent drafts, including a Day 2 pick in 2025, the Patriots’ crowded wide receiver group has led to speculation that the team may need to trade one of its assets. Kayshon Boutte, with his two years left on a rookie deal, appears to be the most likely candidate.
Kayshon Boutte
Kayshon Boutte
“The depth we have at receiver is something we’ve worked hard to build, but it’s become clear that there might be opportunities elsewhere for Kayshon,” said a source close to the team. “Moving him would give us additional draft capital while allowing him a better chance at more playing time.”
A Fit for Pittsburgh
The Steelers, after trading polarizing wide receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys, have been looking to add depth at the position. Boutte, known for his ability to stretch the field and make plays, could be an ideal fit in Pittsburgh’s offense. His skill set offers the Steelers the opportunity to add another dynamic weapon to their receiving corps, potentially filling the gap left by Pickens.
Boutte’s time in New England has shown promise, but his path to consistent playing time has been blocked by the team’s depth at receiver. In Pittsburgh, he could have a clearer route to playing time, potentially securing a starting role and developing further under the Steelers’ system.
The Trade Rumor’s Impact
For New England, trading Boutte would help streamline their roster, clearing up space for other players to emerge and ensuring the team remains focused on their championship aspirations. If the Patriots do move the young receiver, they would likely look for additional draft picks, particularly to strengthen other areas of need on the roster.
The Steelers’ interest in Boutte makes sense given their current need for wide receiver depth and their shift to a more balanced offensive attack. A trade could benefit both sides, with the Patriots gaining valuable draft capital and Boutte getting the chance to thrive in a new environment.
Looking Ahead
As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on New England’s decisions regarding their crowded receiver room. While no official trade has been confirmed, the speculation surrounding Kayshon Boutte‘s potential departure could be the first of several roster changes for the Patriots as they continue to fine-tune their roster ahead of the 2025 season.