Kendrick Bourne feared to have suffered MCL injury

Report: Kendrick Bourne feared to have suffered MCL injury originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

The New England Patriots may have lost wide receiver Kendrick Bourne to a potentially serious knee injury. Bourne is set to undergo an MRI on Monday, with concerns that he may have suffered an MCL injury, as reported by Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network after their Week 8 defeat.

UPDATE (Monday, Oct. 30, 11:10 a.m. ET): Unfortunately, it has been confirmed that Bourne has suffered a torn ACL, and he is expected to be out for the remainder of the season.

During the Patriots’ recent 31-17 loss to the Miami Dolphins, Bourne suffered the injury early in the fourth quarter. After making a catch from Mac Jones, he was tackled by Miami cornerback Eli Apple, resulting in Bourne grabbing his right knee and leaving the game. The Patriots later confirmed that he would not return.

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Prior to the injury, Bourne was a standout performer in the Patriots’ offense, with three catches on four targets for 36 yards and a touchdown against the Dolphins. Throughout the season, Bourne has been a reliable contributor, recording 37 receptions for 406 yards and four touchdowns. He leads the team in targets, receptions, yards, and touchdowns.

Considering the approaching NFL trade deadline and the Patriots’ slim chances of making the playoffs, there have been rumors of Bourne potentially being traded. However, this injury may affect any potential trade deals.

In addition to Bourne, DeVante Parker of the Patriots also suffered a head injury during Sunday’s game that went unpunished by the referees. Their status for the Patriots’ Week 9 game against the Washington Commanders remains uncertain. The Patriots may rely on JuJu Smith-Schuster and Demario Douglas to fill the void. They could also turn to Tyquan Thornton, who has seen playing time in previous weeks due to injuries.

Rookie receiver Kayshon Boutte, who has been inactive since Week 1, could also be an option for the Patriots to explore. Additionally, the Patriots recently elevated Jalen Reagor, a former first-round pick, from the practice squad. Reagor has made one reception for 11 yards in the last two games.

The Patriots, currently 2-6, will face the 3-5 Washington Commanders at home in their next game on Sunday at 1:00 p.m. ET.