**NFL Roster Cuts: Patriots Release Kendrick Bourne and Marcus Epps**
The 2025 NFL season is set to kick off next Thursday with an exciting matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and the reigning Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles. As teams prepare for the season, they faced a crucial deadline to finalize their rosters to 53 players by late Tuesday afternoon. Notably, wide receiver Kendrick Bourne, who was initially included in the New England Patriots’ depth chart, was waived the following day after expressing a desire for a fresh start with another team.
In addition to Bourne, defensive back Marcus Epps also requested his release on cutdown day, as reported by the Boston Herald. Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, who has had a contentious relationship with the media during his first offseason, was asked for his thoughts on these unexpected roster changes. Responding cautiously, Vrabel inquired about the specific players in question.
When the reporter clarified that the inquiry pertained to Bourne and Epps, Vrabel likened the situation to a relationship reaching a turning point. “Yeah, that’s news to me,” he remarked, acknowledging the complexities of roster management. He elaborated, “When it doesn’t work out, you know, you break up with somebody. Your girlfriend doesn’t want to be with you, and then you say, ‘Well, I don’t want to be with you, either.'”
Vrabel emphasized his intention to avoid a lengthy discussion on the matter, stating, “We’re trying to build a roster. You’ve got to move on from some guys. You make connections with players, coach them, and when opportunities arise, they need to take advantage of them.”
Epps has spent six seasons with three different NFL teams, including a brief stint with the Las Vegas Raiders last year, while Bourne has been with the Patriots for the past four seasons, concluding the 2024 campaign with 28 receptions.
The Patriots are set to host the Raiders on September 7, marking the beginning of their regular-season schedule.
**FAQ**
*What led to Kendrick Bourne’s release from the Patriots?*
Kendrick Bourne was released after he requested a fresh start with another team, shortly after being included in the Patriots’ initial depth chart.
