The New England Patriots' star wide receiver, Kayshon Boutte, has been actively seeking a trade from the team over the past few weeks. Amid the ongoing speculation, the Las Vegas Raiders and Washington Commanders have emerged as potential landing spots for the talented player.
Which Teams Are Interested in Kayshon Boutte?
Over the last few weeks, while a number of teams have been linked to Kayshon Boutte, NFL insiders indicate that the Las Vegas Raiders and Washington Commanders appear to be the most interested in acquiring him.
What Are Insiders Saying About the Trade Rumors?
ESPN's Dan Graziano recently noted, "The 2023 sixth-round pick has just one year left on his contract at $3.674 million, and the acquisitions of A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs might just make things too crowded in New England's wide receivers room." Graziano added, "The Patriots have received calls on Boutte and likely will continue to do so. And as always, unless and until we see a contract extension, we're justified in wondering whether the player is in the team's long-term plans. The Raiders and Commanders stand out as two teams that could still use help at wide receiver."
Contract Details and Salary Cap Implications
With Boutte entering the final year of his rookie contract with the Patriots, trading him would instantly clear $3.6 million of his base salary off the team's books. The Patriots would incur a negligible dead cap charge of just $46,818.
How Could the Trade Impact the Teams?
For the Las Vegas Raiders, trading for Boutte would be relatively affordable due to their available cap space. For the Washington Commanders, acquiring Boutte would also be cost-effective as the team actively seeks to upgrade a weaker wide receiver room. Trading for Boutte would allow the Commanders to pair him with his former LSU college quarterback, Jayden Daniels, on a low-risk, one-year trial.
Potential Trade Return
Experts expect the Patriots to receive a late Day 3 draft pick in return, likely a 4th to 7th-round selection, given Boutte's contract status and the crowded receiver room in New England.
