Who Should I Start? Kendrick Bourne or River Cracraft

Saturday, February 22, 12:03 PM

The Athletic's Chad Graff suggests that it could be time for the New England Patriots to move on from wide receiver Kendrick Bourne this offseason, even if he's their top player at their biggest position of need. Bourne missed the start of the 2024 season while recovering from a torn right ACL and caught only 28 passes on 38 targets for 305 yards and one touchdown in 12 games (nine starts) once he returned. With a new coaching regime in town, the Patriots could move on from Bourne, who will be heading into his age-30 season in 2025. New England would save $4.9 million in salary cap space if they cut him before June 1 or $6.3 million if they cut him with a post-June 1 designation. Bourne is under contract with the Patriots through the 2026 season, but it wouldn't be a huge surprise to see this rebuilding organization go in another direction as they completely rebuild their receiving corps.

Saturday, December 28, 9:46 AM

Miami Dolphins wide receiver River Cracraft has been mostly a nonfactor in 2024. After suffering a shoulder injury in the preseason, Cracraft was activated off IR in Week 10 against the Los Angeles Rams. With the injury to Jaylen Waddle (knee), Cracraft saw his first targets of the season in Weeks 15 and 16, totaling two receptions on four targets for 12 yards. With Waddle questionable and having a chance to suit up, he will likely continue to see limited opportunities. To make matters worse, rain is in the forecast for their matchup against the Cleveland Browns. He should be left on benches for championship week.