The New England Patriots surprised fans by benching veteran wide receiver Kendrick Bourne during their 19-3 victory over the Chicago Bears. Despite being active and having no injury issues, Bourne did not play a single snap, a decision attributed to prioritizing younger players.

Head coach Jerod Mayo acknowledged the choice to limit Bourne's playing time but did not provide specific reasons. The move raised eyebrows, especially as other less productive receivers took the field instead. Mayo praised Bourne's positive attitude despite the surprising benching.