5 Patriots players with the murkiest futures this offseason

Kayshon Boutte

Besides the unfortunate news surrounding his recent arrest, which may cause his ultimate release, his underwhelming rookie season may be why the Patriots move on from Kayshon Boutte, if not move him to the practice squad.

The former LSU wide receiver was considered a potential steal of the draft, as he was once considered a first-round talent. But because of injuries and alleged issues with a new head coach, Boutte fell to New England in the sixth round and could never showcase why he was previously considered a top draft prospect.

His fellow sixth-round draft mate, Demario Douglas, outshone him from the start and seemingly earned his spot on the 53-man roster at the start of preseason. Boutte had a few standout moments before the regular season began, but once he got on the field for game time, drops and a nearly invisible presence made it easy to forget he was on the team.

Later in the year, he suffered a few injuries and eventually became a healthy scratch. Now that a new head coach is in charge, he may be given a chance to compete this summer for a spot on the roster.

However, his lack of showing almost anything he can contribute to the team could make him an easy cut before even getting an opportunity to prove himself.