Why this late round receiver might be the steal of the 2023 NFL Draft

The New England Patriots went defense heavy in the first 3 rounds of the NFL draft selecting Christian Gonzalez, Keion White, and Marte Mapu. There were a lot of questions as to why the Patriots didn’t select a weapon for Mac Jones, but those questions were answered in round 6 when the Patriots selected LSU WR Kayshon Boutte.

Boutee was the 2nd ranked wide receiver in the 2020 High School Class behind Ohio State Receiver Julian Fleming. In Boutte’s freshman season at LSU he caught a lot of eyes with a 300 yard performance against Ole Miss, which had people calling him a no doubt first round draft pick.

Boutte started his sophomore year leading the nation in touchdown catches before a season-ending injury and then had a junior year where he was healthy, but there was a significant lack of production. This could be attributed to coaching and QB changes.

At first Boutte announced he was returning to LSU for his senior season, but later on declared for the 2023 NFL Draft. People questioned why he declared as a junior coming off of a poor Junior season, but that didn’t stop Boutte. Boutte also had a poor combine performance only running a 4.5 flat and not showing his best in Indianapolis. Also worth mentioning that Boutee broke a bone in his foot this off season, which could have caused him to not perform well.

When it came around to the 6th round in the 2023 NFL Draft, The Patriots selected LSU wideout Kayshon Boutte with the No. 187 overall pick. To me this was a no-brainer. Boutee has some of the highest upside in this draft and could end up being the steal of this draft if he stays committed and can stay on the field.

When it comes to comparisons I see a lot of Deebo Samuel in his game with his ability after the catch and how he can be used in Bill O’Briens offense with Mac Jones.