The New England Patriots were one of the surprise teams in the NFL last season. They improved from three wins in 2024 to 14 in 2025. Their trip to the Super Bowl was something few anticipated. While the Patriots benefited from a favorable schedule, they also made key offseason additions to strengthen their roster.
One of those additions was veteran wide receiver Stefon Diggs. Diggs will no longer be with the Patriots as the 2026 season approaches. The team decided to release him, leaving work to be done to upgrade the position.
New England’s Wide Receiver Depth Chart
With Diggs gone, the Patriots have a questionable depth chart at wide receiver entering 2026. None of their current players has experience as a true WR1, so upgrades are likely to be pursued this offseason. Among the top options are Kayshon Boutte, DeMario Douglas, and Mack Hollins.
Who is Kayshon Boutte?
Boutte was one of the surprise contributors on the Patriots’ roster in 2025. A sixth-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, he produced a solid season, catching 33 passes for 551 yards and 6 touchdowns. He excelled in the postseason, recording nine receptions for 168 yards and one touchdown.
Entering his age-24 season, Boutte is expected to continue developing and could emerge as the top receiving option for quarterback Drake Maye. According to PFSN metrics, Boutte posted a WR Impact Score of 81.5 last season, ranking No. 18 in the NFL. He is the best internal candidate to replace Diggs.
Who is DeMario Douglas?
Douglas, another receiver from the 2023 NFL Draft, has also been productive. He is coming off a season with 31 receptions for 447 yards and 3 touchdowns. While Douglas does not project as a WR1, he is a valuable asset in the slot.
Douglas is entering the final year of his rookie contract and will look to prove he deserves a significant extension. Players in contract years often deliver breakout performances, motivated by their future prospects.
Who is Mack Hollins?
Hollins is one of the more intriguing players on the roster. He has played for six teams across eight seasons but delivered one of his most productive campaigns in 2025 with New England, catching 46 passes for 550 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Hollins will turn 33 in September, making it unlikely he can serve as a WR1. However, he has shown chemistry with Maye and should remain a contributor in the passing game.
Potential Outside Options
The Patriots may look beyond their roster for a WR1 this offseason. One player linked to them is Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown. With Brown’s situation in Philadelphia reportedly unsettled, a trade could be possible. Brown has a history with head coach Mike Vrabel, who coached him in Tennessee, making New England a logical destination if the Eagles decide to move him.
Another option is free agent Alec Pierce. Though less established, Pierce is coming off the best season of his career, with 47 receptions for 1,003 yards and 6 touchdowns. His 21.3 yards per reception led the league, and his downfield ability could complement Maye’s skill set.
