Patriots' Strategy With Key Playmaker Is Beyond Puzzling

Oct 13, 2024; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Kendrick Bourne (84) makes a catch against the Houston Texans during the second half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images / Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images The New England Patriots decided not to move wide receiver Kendrick Bourne at the NFL trade deadline. Given that they just signed him to a three-year contract extension during the offseason, the decision made some sense.

Perhaps the Patriots viewed Bourne as a crucial piece moving forward, right? That's especially considering that rookie quarterback Drake Maye could use a security blanket, and Bourne has proven to be a reliable…