Waivers came and went without the Washington Commanders securing any players who didn't quite make the grade elsewhere. Securing desired targets was always going to be difficult at No. 29 in the order, which immediately turned attention to the potential veteran pool.
This seemed like a much more realistic proposition. Adam Peters is depending heavily on veteran players this season, and the Commanders have among the league's oldest rosters. That's come in for criticism, but it was the only option after years of woeful drafting from the previous head coach, Ron Rivera.
The Commanders' roster looks top-heavy once again. Some position groups are deeper than others, but more might be needed before Week 1 against the New York Giants arrives. If the general manager wants to add another weapon for quarterback Jayden Daniels with someone he knows well, the perfect possibility just became available.
Kendrick Bourne's time with the New England Patriots officially fizzled out. The AFC East club tried to work out a trade with the Minnesota Vikings to get something back in return. When they went with Adam Thielen instead, they had no choice other than to release him.
Bourne came up as an undrafted free agent with the San Francisco 49ers as an undrafted free agent. Peters was one of the front-office figures who identified the pass-catcher as someone who could potentially make an impression. He rewarded the franchise with four years of solid production before securing a decent contract in New England.
After a hot start with more than 800 receiving yards, Bourne's influence has diminished. Injuries didn't help his cause, but it's clear he was being sent to the fringes in favor of others. What Peters must figure out is whether this was scheme-related or if there isn't much left in the tank.
The Commanders have had a lot of success with experienced retreads down on their luck. Most have thrived in a strong culture with an exceptional support system around them. Washington might be content with taking five wideouts through, especially after signing undrafted rookie Ja'Corey Brooks to the practice squad, but bringing him in for a workout wouldn't be the worst idea in the world.
Peters is probably comfortable enough with what he has for now. But if he thinks Bourne can assist, he won't hesitate to bring him into the fold.
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