Bourne, who began the season on the PUP last while recovering from a 2023 ACL injury, will make his season debut against Miami. Bourne and Ja'Lynn Polk should operate as the Patriots' top two receiving options for now. Patriots declared S Jabrill Peppers, S Kyle Dugger, WR KJ Osborn, QB Joe Milton, DE Jamree Kromah, WR Javon Baker, and TE Jaheim Bell inactive against Miami.
The Patriots' front-seven is down three starters at this point. It's an unideal situation facing the 49ers' vaunted rushing attack. The 49ers' pass rush should also effectively generate pressure against the Patriots' problematic offensive line.