After seeing some flashes from rookie quarterback Drake Maye in 2024, expectations were high for the New England Patriots. However, not many expected them to be leading the AFC with an 11-3 record heading into Week 16.
The offense has been firing on all cylinders, but saw a key contributor, wide receiver Kayshon Boutte, go down late in the fourth quarter as they drove for a touchdown to take the lead. Here’s everything to know about the Patriots’ WRs’ status.
What Happened to New England Patriots WR Kayshon Boutte?
Boutte was drafted in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft by the Patriots. He struggled to get going in his rookie season, but his pairing with Maye in 2024 started to unlock the former LSU Tiger. He was able to haul in 43 passes for 589 yards and three touchdowns a season ago.
He’s primed to surpass those totals in 2025, but an injury on Sunday Night Football against the Ravens in Week 16 could complicate those efforts. While he struggled to find much space, catching one of three targets for 16 yards, he would go down on his final target.
Guarded by Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey, Maye found Boutte streaking down the field. Despite an apparent defensive pass interference, the referees failed to throw the flag, and Boutte was unable to haul in the pass.
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He would get hurt during the takedown, and despite getting up with the help of his teammates, would fall back to the turf and require additional assistance to get off the field.
Marlon Humphrey tackles Kayshon Boutte.
No pass interference, how the hell isn’t it, if you tackle someone before they get the ball… it’s a penalty.
Right? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/9SwIgNURT1
— SM Highlights (@SMHighlights1) December 22, 2025
Boutte has been one of the better wide receivers in the NFL this season, according to PFSN’s WR Impact metric. He squeaks into the top-ten WRs of 2025 with an impact score of 85.1.
In 12 games this season, Boutte has caught 30 of 39 targets for 511 yards and a career-high six touchdowns. He’s been a reliable option for Maye this season with an impressive 17 yards per reception.
The Patriots’ offense as a whole has also been a top-ten unit in 2025 after struggling in the post-Tom Brady era. According to PFSN’s Offense Impact metric, New England ranks eighth with an offense score of 82.8.
The loss of Boutte didn’t ultimately affect them, as they were able to drive down the field and score the winning touchdown against Baltimore; however, depending on the severity, an extended loss could be felt on the offensive side of the ball.
Editor’s Note: This is a breaking news story and will be updated throughout the day as more information becomes available.
