Jerod Mayo confirms Patriots top receiver will begin practicing this week

The New England Patriots have had arguably the worst offense in the league through the first four weeks of the season, as they've averaged the second-fewest points per game (13) and the fewest yards (238.8).

However, Alex Van Pelt's unit could be getting a boost in the near future, as Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo confirmed reports on Monday that wide receiver Kendrick Bourne will begin practicing this week.

Before suffering a torn ACL in New England's Week 8 matchup against the Miami Dolphins last season, the 29-year-old was on pace for the best season of his career, catching 37 passes for 406 yards and four touchdowns.

When healthy, Bourne is the Patriots' best receiver, so if he's good to go, he'll likely slide in at the top of the depth chart and push guys like Javon Baker and Kayshon Boutte to inactive on game day.

New England already has an open roster spot, so if they were to activate him for this week, they wouldn't have to make a corresponding move, but it wouldn't be surprising to see them allow the wideout to get working on the field for longer before throwing him out there.

While Bourne's presence might not turn the Patriots into instant contenders, he'll be another reliable target for Jacoby Brissett (and eventually Drake Maye) to throw to.

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