Kendrick Bourne using Patriots latest gesture as motivation for 2023 season
FOXBOROUGH, MA — While many players were concerned about their roster status on Tuesday, it seemed Kendrick Bourne's spot was locked down. Bourne has looked solid this preseason and because of that, he was on some other team's radars. However, the Athletic's Jeff Howe put an end to any rumors that might come from that, […]
FOXBOROUGH, MA — While many players were concerned about their roster status on Tuesday, it seemed Kendrick Bourne's spot was locked down.
Bourne has looked solid this preseason and because of that, he was on some other team's radars.
However, the Athletic's Jeff Howe put an end to any rumors that might come from that, reporting on Tuesday that the Patriots had received called about Bourne but said he was "not available."
And Bourne, who looking to improve after struggling last season, didn't hold back when asked about what that gesture meant to him.
"I appreciate Bill (Belichick). Bill stuck with me. I struggled last year personally and he's always pushed me to be better. Like I just said, it's about getting better and I feel like Bill encourages me every day," Bourne said. "I appreciate that personally because he could have just been like 'whatever,' but he's always pushed me."
"And this year I want to go my hardest I've ever gone and it feels good," Bourne added. "I'm glad to be here and this is where I'm supposed to be, and that's what's happening."
Bourne finished last season with 35 catches for 434 yards and one touchdown, which was far less than he has had in previous years. Especially after he had a career-high 55 catches in his first season with the Patriots in 2021.
And much of that can be contributed to Matt Patricia, who was serving as the Patriots play caller in 2022. And Bourne was not quiet in voicing the clear issues with the offense last year, which many speculated could have resulted in his smaller amount of play time.
However, it's a new year with Bill O'Brien leading the charge as the offensive coordinator. So with Bourne where he's "supposed to be," let's see what he can bring to a Patriots offense looking to prove everyone wrong.
Ezekiel Elliott trying to prepare for one of New England’s biggest obstacles
Just wait until the temperature begins to drop.
Featured Image via Sarah Kloepping/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin / USA TODAY NETWORK
