The Atlanta Falcons could be making an intriguing move by trading for New England Patriots wide receiver Kendrick Bourne.

According to Heavy’s Daniel Arwas, the Falcons could use a shifty slot receiver, while also taking some of the burden off New England’s crowded receiver room. Bourne is entering his ninth NFL season and fits the profile of a potential trade piece, as well as a possible cut candidate.

“The player that makes the most sense for a trade at this point is Kendrick Bourne, whose combination of previous production and experience, yet lower future upside over the next few years, makes him about the best candidate to be moved,” Arwas said.

The potential return would be a seventh-round draft pick in 2026, giving the Falcons little to lose if Bourne does not work out. Arwas noted that Bourne, who turns 30 years old in August, offers a specific value to a young quarterback like Michael Penix.

“The depth chart at receiver looks exceptionally thin,” Arwas said. “Bourne is a proven talent who has shown the ability to make plays over the middle – something that is notoriously valuable for young quarterbacks.”

The Falcons have just under $5 million in cap space, which is the third-lowest in the NFL. That means Bourne’s $5.5 million base salary would automatically put Atlanta over the cap. That does put a wrench in this plan for Arwas. Bourne would either have to agree to a restructured contract or the team would release a different player to make space.

Regardless, it is becoming increasingly likely that the Patriots unload Bourne one way or another.