Latest comments from Patriots receiver might do more harm than good

With the new regime in charge for the Patriots 2024 season, drama seemed like a thing of the past, as it seemed to have left with Bill Belichick during the offseason. There was an attitude shift in the locker room that the players couldn't stop raving about, but the good vibes have not lasted long now that the team has lost six games in a row.

While some players have taken it upon themselves to call out their teammates to the media as leaders of the roster, the main source of drama continues to surround the receiving corps. Instead of addressing their concerns behind closed doors, they have continued to create a stir with their social media activity, which Jerod Mayo seems to welcome with his approval of players discussing their frustrations in the public.

But the constant negativity is not a good look for the rookie head coach nor the team as they try to navigate through the first year of a massive rebuild, and it doesn't appear the receivers can make it one day without adding more fuel to the fire.

That's the case with second-year player Kayshon Boutte, whose most recent comments might be another bad decision regarding his playing time this season.

Kayshon Boutte continues to be risky with his statements to the media

Most of the comments made by Patriots receivers this season have made many point the finger at new offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt or former starting quarterback Jacoby Brissett. It was clear he preferred to throw to certain players, and Van Pelt was (of course) catering to that, but that has since changed with Drake Maye under center.

Despite the quarterback switch-up being viewed as a positive move, receivers are still complaining about their usage, or lack thereof, which is what Boutte spoke of again this past week.

“For me personally, in the game, I get frustrated when I’m not getting thrown the ball knowing that I’ve caught every ball that’s thrown to me this season. So, I just feel like I would always go to the sideline and demand the ball. So, whether it was that deep ball – I asked for that. The Texans game, I asked for that. So, I feel like I shouldn’t have to really ask.”

He makes a fair argument regarding how well he's done for the offense, as he has recorded 8/10 receptions for 139 yards and a touchdown. Besides DeMario Douglas and Hunter Henry, he has been Maye's most reliable target and should likely receive more opportunities.

However, relaying this information to the media rather than discussing it with the team behind closed doors might not be the best idea, especially since there is already enough drama for the team to deal with.

By continuing to share frustrations with reporters, the public is given more to discuss and create narratives that get back to the team and create more division. It seems easy to avoid, and given how limited Boutte has been used this season, even if he's performed well, it looks a bit bold to be demanding more when he was barely a factor during his rookie season.

At the same time, he has been a valuable asset for Maye to work with over the past two weeks and should be used more moving forward. If Van Pelt can make that happen and Boutte can continue to prove his worth, then that's the best that can come from this situation.

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