Kayshon Boutte Embraces Role Amidst Limited Targets for Patriots

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — Kayshon Boutte is making a name for himself as a valuable wide receiver for the New England Patriots, but was noticeably absent during the team’s Week 4 win against the Carolina Panthers.

Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels eased concerns about Boutte’s lack of targets during the game, emphasizing that it doesn’t reflect on the team’s confidence in him. “Kayshon, he does his job. I think it’s unique, and I think he was our leading receiver in Week 1, and then Rhamondre (Stevenson) in Week 2, and Hunter (Henry) in Week 3, and (Stefon) Diggs in Week 4,” McDaniels told reporters on Thursday.

McDaniels noted that the distribution of targets depends on defensive coverage and matchups. He said, “These guys all do their job and every skill player wants to have the ball. But he’s had a great attitude, doing everything that we’re asking him to do. I have no doubt that opportunities will find all those guys.”

Boutte himself expressed his desire for more touches but acknowledged that winning is the ultimate goal. “Ultimately for receivers, we do want the ball. I think that’s just really the competitor in us,” he said. “But at the end of the day, everybody’s getting the ball, everybody’s eating. And as long as we win, that’s the big thing.”

He also stated the importance of being ready when called upon. “You never know when your name’s going to get called, but just when they do, make the play,” Boutte added.

While Boutte may not consistently be the one receiving the ball, he remains dedicated to improving each week. “It really all goes back to during the week, just doing everything, even knowing the little details. I would just say, just showing the coaches that even when you’re not getting the ball, you’re still doing everything right,” he explained.