The New England Patriots have signed wide receiver Brenden Rice following the injury of Kayshon Boutte. NFL insider Jordan Schultz reported this move amidst Boutte’s struggle with a hamstring injury. This signing allows the Patriots to bolster their receiving corps ahead of an upcoming game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Profile of Brenden Rice
Brenden Rice, the son of NFL Hall of Famer Jerry Rice, enters the professional league as a promising talent. He had a noteworthy collegiate career, split between the University of Colorado and the University of Southern California (USC).
College Career Highlights
- Transferred to USC before the 2022 season.
- Finishing as a senior with 791 receiving yards.
- Led the team with 12 touchdown receptions.
Rice gained recognition as a top prospect, ranking as the No. 103 overall player and the 20th-best receiver on Bleacher Report’s final draft board for 2024. His physicality and separation skills drew praise from B/R NFL scout Derrik Klassen.
NFL Journey
Drafted in the seventh round, Rice aims to make his mark in the NFL. Despite appearing in three games for the Los Angeles Chargers in 2024, he was waived in August without any recorded receptions.
Impact of Boutte’s Injury
With Kayshon Boutte’s uncertain status for Week 10, the Patriots may rely more on existing receivers like Stefon Diggs, DeMario Douglas, Mack Hollins, and Kyle Williams. This situation could provide a valuable opportunity for Rice to contribute on the field as he seeks his first NFL reception.
