Patriots WR Kendrick Bourne sends strong message about return to Miami after ACL tear
It is going to be an emotional return to Hard Rock Stadium for Kendrick Bourne in the New England Patriots' Week 12 matchup against the Miami Dolphins. Last season, Bourne suffered a torn ACL and it happened in Miami, so the veteran receiver spoke about his return to the where it all happened earlier this […]
It is going to be an emotional return to Hard Rock Stadium for Kendrick Bourne in the New England Patriots' Week 12 matchup against the Miami Dolphins.
Last season, Bourne suffered a torn ACL and it happened in Miami, so the veteran receiver spoke about his return to the where it all happened earlier this week.
“I got hurt last year, so I’m going to go to the spot I was at, and kind of talk to (the field), you know, ‘Leave me alone,’'’ Bourne said with a smile. “Just embrace the environment. It’s going to be loud, it’s going to be different.”
The recovery from such a serious injury is challenging, but Bourne continued to persevere. He wanted to get back onto the football field, and he did just that.
So he took a moment to reflect on all he's been through.
“My mom sent me a picture the other day where I had a brace on my knee and stuff, like from a year ago. I’m just very thankful,” Bourne said. “It was a journey, and when I think about it, it’s heartwarming to be back. I feel like I’m back to where I was, and doing exercises, doing body compositions, seeing where my body was, I’ve made it to a good point. Just got to keep stacking it up. So every time I leave the field now, it feels different. It’s a blessing to make it off every time.”
Bourne has had some ups and downs since returning, and a key moment was when he was benched in the Patriots' win against the Chicago Bears.
Yet, the following game he was back out there and took full advantage. Bourne finished with five receptions for 70 yards, and recorded his first touchdown of the season.
It would be the best kind of revenge to have a career game at Hard Rock Stadium after the injury.
We'll just have to wait and see.
