The New England Patriots need someone to step up in the wide receiving corps.
They had one of the least impressive WR corps and offenses in the game last season, and things haven’t changed that much in 2024.
However, one of their players is ready to take a major leap forward and prove that he can also be a leader.
That’s the case with Kendrick Bourne.
Talking on his YouTube channel, he acknowledged his desire to lead by example and become a team captain, showing up early to OTAs, being on time, being vocal, and making sure to be there for all their other players (via Carlos Talks Pats).
#Patriots WR Kendrick Bourne says he is working towards being a captain this year and that he wants to be a vocal leader.
“Tryna be a captain this year and the way I got to do it is just being present, bruh. Everyday, going to OTA’s, being on time, leading the guys, talking,… pic.twitter.com/mC8A0fl09f
— Carlos Talks Pats (@LosTalksPats) June 8, 2024
He also wants to be a motivator for the younger players, stating that he wants everybody to watch him do his thing, and not just listen to him talk about being a leader.
That’s the kind of mindset you want when you’re entering a new era.
There could be a bit of a void of power with Bill Belichick no longer on the premises, and new HC Jerod Mayo will also need his veterans to help him stay in control of the locker room while he builds and establishes a new culture there.
The Patriots might need an extra couple of years before being ready to compete at the highest level, especially if Drake Maye isn’t ready to perform for the first couple of seasons.
That’s why it’ll be key for the veterans to step up and do their part in this transition, even if they’re not there to reap what they sow.
