The Washington Commanders are hosting a Kendrick Bourne visit on Tuesday. The former Patriots receiver will also meet with San Francisco on Monday, following his release from New England. Washington seeks some depth on a thin receiver corps.
Bourne requested his release from the Patriots after battling injuries during training camp. The veteran wideout now searches for the right opportunity to continue his NFL career. He represents a low-risk addition for the Commanders.
Washington carried only five receivers on their 53-man roster. Adding experienced talent like Bourne makes strategic sense heading into the season. When Washington only kept five, it tipped their hat that they might still be looking elsewhere for a piece.
What the Kendrick Bourne Visit Means
Signing Bourne would address Washington’s receiver depth concerns immediately. Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel form the starting duo. Noah Brown provides reliable possession receiving in the slot. Beyond that trio, options are relatively unproven.
Rookie Jaylin Lane currently holds the fourth receiver spot. Luke McCaffrey offers developmental upside but remains raw. Bourne would bring almost 100 games of NFL experience to the equation.
His familiarity with Samuel creates instant chemistry potential. They spent four seasons together in San Francisco, and were teammates during the 49ers’ 2020 Super Bowl run. That connection could accelerate Bourne’s integration into Washington’s offense.
Bourne’s Production History
Bourne peaked during his 2021 Patriots season with 55 catches for 800 yards and five touchdowns. That production came as a complementary piece in New England’s passing attack. He was reliable throughout that campaign.
Injuries derailed his 2023 season when he tore his ACL midway through the year. Last season represented a recovery year with limited action. Bourne managed just 28 receptions for 305 yards and one touchdown across 12 games.
Bourne has had preseason foot issues, but the receiver says his foot feels great heading into this opportunity.
Strategic Fit?
Washington needs insurance against receiver injuries during the long season. McLaurin and Samuel carry significant workloads in the passing game. Depth becomes crucial for sustained success.
Bourne would likely compete with Lane for the fourth receiver role initially. That competition benefits both players and creates roster flexibility. His playoff experience adds veteran leadership to a young position group.
His size and physicality complement Washington’s existing receivers well. Bourne stands 6-foot-1 with strong hands in traffic. He can be reliable third-down target and red zone option.
Likely Concerns
Bourne will have to answer for legitimate health questions. His ACL tear in 2023 required extensive rehabilitation and recovery time. Foot injuries during this preseason raised additional concerns about his current status.
Washington’s medical staff will surely evaluate his health status thoroughly during the visit.
There would likely be minimum salary negotiations given his recent release. Bourne cleared waivers, making him available to any team. Additionally, Washington can offer immediate playing time opportunities that other suitors might not provide.
Timing Of The Visit
The timing of the visit suggests urgency from both sides heading into Week 1. Washington opens against the Giants in just days. Any addition needs some time to integrate into the offensive system.
Bourne visits San Francisco on Monday, so Washington must act decisively if they want to secure his services.
The veteran could immediately upgrade Washington’s receiver depth chart. His presence could also ideally allow more strategic rest for McLaurin and Samuel during the season. His reliable hands make him a trustworthy target in crucial situations. Washington’s passing attack would gain another proven weapon.
The competitive element benefits everyone in the receiver room too. Lane faces veteran competition for playing time. McCaffrey continues to develop. The entire group elevates through healthy competition.
Looking Ahead
The Kendrick Bourne visit represents proactive roster management by Adam Peters. Identifying and pursuing available talent shows organizational commitment to winning.
Every competitive advantage matters in the NFC East race.