- Tyquan Thornton
- #80
- Team KC
- Pos WR
- Status IRInjured Reserve
-
Moved to IR, done for 2025
The Chiefs placed Thornton (concussion) on injured reserve Wednesday.
Analysis: Thornton entered the league's concussion protocol following the Chiefs' Week 15 loss to the Chargers, which prevented him from playing against the Titans in Week 16. Since the Chiefs are eliminated from playoff contention, Thornton's placement on IR means he will not return in 2025 and not play in the Kansas City's last two regular-season games. The 2022 second-rounder signed a one-year contract with the Chiefs in February after being cut by the Patriots in November in 2024, and he finished his…read more
Published: Wed, Dec 24 at 12:24pm by Rotowire.com
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Won't practice again Tuesday
Head coach Andy Reid said that Thornton (concussion) won't take part in Tuesday's practice, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.
Analysis: Thornton entered concussion protocol following the Chiefs' Week 15 loss to the Chargers and wasn't available for this past Sunday's loss to the Titans. The wide receiver still appears to be dealing with symptoms of the concussion and is looking unlikely to be available for Thursday's game against the Broncos.
Published: Tue, Dec 23 at 10:05am by Rotowire.com
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Listed as DNP again
Thornton (concussion) was listed as a DNP on Monday's estimated practice report.
Analysis: Both Thornton and fellow WR Rashee Rice have yet to log any on-field work since emerging from Week 15 action with concussions. As a result, it appears a stretch for either player to gain clearance from an independent neurologist ahead of Thursday's game against the Broncos. Xavier Worthy, Hollywood Brown, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Nikko Remigio and Jalen Royals are the Chiefs' current healthy options at the position.
Published: Mon, Dec 22 at 3:21pm by Rotowire.com
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Remains in concussion protocol
Thornton (concussion) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Titans.
Analysis: Rashee Rice and Thornton both remain in the concussion protocol and won't suit up Sunday after failing to practice in any capacity throughout the week. Thornton would need to log a full practice and receive clearance from an independent neurologist to have a chance to clear protocol before Thursday's game against the Broncos, so he looks like a long shot to play Week 17 as well. Xavier Worthy, Hollywood Brown, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Nikko Remigio and Jalen Royals are the available options at wide…read more
Published: Fri, Dec 19 at 12:11pm by Rotowire.com
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Absent from practice again
Thornton (concussion) will not practice Thursday, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.
Analysis: Thornton and top wideout Rashee Rice (concussion) have both kicked off Week 16 with back-to-back absences from practice, a scenario that could leave Gardner Minshew shorthanded for Sunday's game against the Titans. Prior to entering the concussion protocol during Kansas City's loss to the Chargers in Week 15, Thornton secured two of three targets for 47 yards.
Published: Thu, Dec 18 at 10:55am by Rotowire.com
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Logs DNP on Wednesday
Thornton (concussion) won't practice Wednesday, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.
Analysis: Thornton sustained a concussion in the Week 15 loss to the Chargers, so it's no surprise he won't practice Wednesday. The fourth-year pro has been one of Kansas City's most productive receivers this season, catching 19 of 36 targets for 438 yards and three touchdowns while also accumulating 475 kick-return yards. He must still clear the NFL's five-step concussion protocol in order to suit up for the Week 16 matchup against the Titans on Sunday.
Published: Wed, Dec 17 at 10:20am by Rotowire.com
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In concussion protocol after loss
Thornton (concussion) caught two of three targets for 47 yards before exiting the contest early in the fourth quarter due to a helmet-to-helmet hit during Sunday's 16-13 loss to the Chargers.
Analysis: Thornton played 31 of the Chiefs' 61 offensive snaps in the contest, behind Rashee Rice (52), Xavier Worthy (41) and JuJu Smith-Schuster (32). With Hollywood Brown (personal) inactive, the 25-year-old Thornton saw a 51 percent snap share, his largest since Week 3. His increased role Sunday led to a bump in production, but fantasy managers should monitor his status in the concussion protocol leading up to the Kansas City's Week 16 matchup against the Titans. Even if he clears the protocol, the…read more
Published: Tue, Dec 16 at 11:49pm by Rotowire.com
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Possible concussion
Thornton is being evaluated for a possible concussion and is questionable to return to Sunday's game against the Chargers.
Analysis: Thornton took a helmet-to-helmet hit from Tony Jefferson early in the fourth quarter, which resulted in the latter being ejected from Sunday's game. With Hollywood Brown (personal) inactive, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Nikko Remigio and Jalen Royals are all candidates to see more snaps on offense for as long as Thornton is out of the game.
Published: Sun, Dec 14 at 12:53pm by Rotowire.com
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Snares two passes versus Texans
Thornton logged two receptions (on three targets) for 19 yards during Sunday's 20-10 defeat versus Houston.
Analysis: Thornton continues to be part of the glob of wideouts who rotate in to occasionally spell or work alongside the primary duo of Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy, logging a 30 percent offensive snap share to sit just behind JuJu Smith-Schuster (38 percent) and Hollywood Brown (34 percent). There's little to like from the latter group in terms of fantasy, Thornton included, but Thornton should continue to mix into the offensive scheme as a deep threat, and there's always the possibility of a role…read more
Published: Tue, Dec 9 at 1:19pm by Rotowire.com
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Blanked by Colts
Thornton didn't reel in his lone target during Sunday's 23-20 overtime victory against the Colts.
Analysis: Thornton's role on offense has declined significantly with all of the Chiefs' weapons available, and there's nothing to suggest that will change. Thornton remains a deep-threat option in the passing attack, evidenced by his 61-yard grab in Week 11 versus the Broncos, but he'll likely see minimal opportunities moving forward, so he can be viewed as a depth piece with some upside if injuries hit the wide receiver room.
Published: Tue, Nov 25 at 1:29pm by Rotowire.com
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One grab in loss
Thornton caught one of his two targets for 61 yards in Sunday's 22-19 loss to the Broncos.
Analysis: Thornton made one big play Sunday, catching a 61-yard deep ball from Patrick Mahomes in the third quarter. The 25-year-old wideout has proven he can make explosive plays when called upon by Kansas City, but he has seen his snap counts decrease since teammate Rashee Rice returned from his six-game suspension in Week 7. In Week 11, Thornton played just 16 of the Chiefs' 70 offensive snaps, the fewest of any Chiefs wide receiver. Based on his limited usage in the Kansas City's aerial attack, the…read more
Published: Wed, Nov 19 at 6:48am by Rotowire.com
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Snap counts dwindling
Thornton failed to reel in his lone target during Sunday's 28-21 loss against the Bills.
Analysis: Thornton got off to a hot start in 2025, registering 13 catches for 272 yards and three touchdowns through the first five games, but there's been an about-face in production since then. Over the past four contests, Thornton has tallied just one catch for 39 yards on three total targets and has logged fewer than 30 snaps in each contest (fewer than 20 in three of four). Assuming the wideout room remains healthy, it's tough to see Thornton boasting enough of a role on offense to warrant fantasy…read more
Published: Tue, Nov 4 at 12:05pm by Rotowire.com
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Minimal output versus Raiders
Thornton reeled in one of his two targets for 39 yards during Sunday's 31-0 victory over the Raiders.
Analysis: Despite a strong start to the season in which Thornton turned in three touchdowns in the first four weeks, he has seen his playing time fall off from Week 4 on, as he's played less than half of the offensive snaps in each of the past four contests. With Rashee Rice back in the mix for Kansas City, the Chiefs don't have as much playing time to go around in the wideout room, so it's unlikely Thornton will see his role grow unless injuries hit the position group.
Published: Tue, Oct 21 at 9:13am by Rotowire.com
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Held without a catch
Thornton was not targeted during Sunday night's 30-17 win over Detroit.
Analysis: Thornton fell back to earth Week 6, playing just 27 percent of offensive snaps and finishing without a target for the first time this season. His decline in usage and involvement bodes especially poorly with Rashee Rice (suspension) eligible for reinstatement Week 7 versus the Raiders. As such, Thornton looks positioned to work behind all of Rice, Xavier Worthy, Hollywood Brown and JuJu Smith-Schuster this Sunday. Such a role could relegate Thornton to little more than scripted downfield plays.
Published: Mon, Oct 13 at 9:36am by Rotowire.com
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Finishes as team's leading receiver
Thornton finished with three catches for 90 yards on five targets in Monday's 31-28 loss to the Jaguars.
Analysis: After drawing a team-high nine targets in the Chiefs' Week 3 win over the Giants, Thornton saw his role in the passing game take a significant hit in the Week 4 win over the Ravens, when Kansas City returned Xavier Worthy from a two-game absence. Though he still ranked fourth among Chiefs receivers in snap share (45 percent) and ranked fourth overall in targets in Monday's win, Thornton was able to make the most of his opportunities. He accounted for three of the Chiefs' four biggest plays of…read more
Published: Tue, Oct 7 at 8:09am by Rotowire.com
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Role fades in Worthy's return
Thornton recorded one reception on two targets for 11 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 37-20 win over the Ravens.
Analysis: Thornton was Kansas City's top pass catcher in Week 3, but he was an afterthought Sunday with Xavier Worthy active for the first time since Week 1. Thornton made the most of his opportunities with an 11-yard touchdown catch down the middle of the field to kick off the second half, however. He has found the end zone in three straight games, but his current role makes him an unreliable fantasy option.
Published: Sun, Sep 28 at 11:29pm by Rotowire.com
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Leads KC in receiving Sunday
Thornton finished with five receptions on nine targets for 71 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 22-9 win over the Giants.
Analysis: Thornton was afforded another opportunity to post noteworthy numbers after Xavier Worthy (shoulder) was held out for another contest. The 25-year-old Thornton had a second touchdown grab taken off the board when replay review determined he was down before extending past the goal line. It will be hard to ignore Thornton's production in recent weeks, but it is worth noting again that his role could be reduced when Worthy eventually is cleared for action. The latter's next opportunity to return…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 21 at 9:36pm by Rotowire.com
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Rips off long TD grab
Thornton brought in two of five targets for 59 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 20-17 loss to the Eagles.
Analysis: Thornton left his mark on this contest when he beat his defensive assignment deep for a 49-yard touchdown grab in the fourth quarter of an eventual loss. The former Patriot had just one reception for 10 yards on his previous four targets, highlighting the boom-or-bust nature of his role in this offense. With Xavier Worthy (shoulder) trending towards a Week 3 return, Thornton could find himself back in a reserve role against the Giants next Sunday.
Published: Sun, Sep 14 at 10:48pm by Rotowire.com
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Makes two grabs in Chiefs debut
Thornton secured two of four targets for 41 yards during the Chiefs' 27-21 loss to the Chargers on Friday night.
Analysis: Thornton recorded the second-highest yardage total of his NFL career in his first regular-season appearance with Kansas City, playing 72 percent of offensive snaps and operating as a starter in three-wide sets alongside Hollywood Brown and JuJu Smith-Schuster. With Rashee Rice (suspension) unavailable for the first six games of the year, Thornton had already been facing increased opportunities, but it was Xavier Worthy (shoulder) being forced out after just three offensive snaps that bumped…read more
Published: Sat, Sep 6 at 1:07pm by Rotowire.com
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Could contribute in Rice's absence
Thornton is a candidate to see added work early on this season, with Rashee Rice (suspension) set to miss the Chiefs' first six games, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: In Rice's absence, Xavier Worthy is in line to have a high profile in the passing offense, while Hollywood Brown and Thornton also figure to factor in, per Rapoport. Thornton earned a roster spot with a strong training camp, and now the speedster has a chance to make his mark out of the gate this season. Also in the team's WR mix are veteran option JuJu Smith-Schuster, with Jason Brownlee and Nikko Remigio on hand as well.
Published: Fri, Sep 5 at 4:14pm by Rotowire.com
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Honing in on roster spot
Thornton is likely to make the Chiefs' 53-man roster, Jesse Newell of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Thornton isn't exactly a roster lock in the way that Rashee Rice (groin), Xavier Worthy, Hollywood Brown (ankle), JuJu Smith-Schuster and rookie fourth-rounder Jalen Royals are, but Newell reports that training camp has clearly demonstrated that Andy Reid envisions a role for Thornton's 4.28 speed. Newell notes that Thornton would be an ideal fit to take over the field-stretching role Kansas City had relied on Justin Watson, now with the Texans, to handle the last three seasons. Thornton will…read more
Published: Wed, Aug 13 at 7:43am by Rotowire.com
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Building momentum with new team
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid said Thursday at the final session of mandatory minicamp that Thornton has had a good offseason, Charles Goldman of AtoZSports.com reports.
Analysis: "I like [Thornton]," said Reid, mentioning that the wideout has "got [Mahomes'] trust" and has "gotten some valuable reps here." A 2022 second-round pick, Thornton never managed to put things together across his three seasons in New England, resulting in him being cut last November and joining Kansas City's practice squad. The 6-foot-2, 185-pound speedster has managed to flash during early offseason activities, but his next task will be to keep that momentum going during full-contact drills at…read more
Published: Thu, Jun 19 at 10:07am by Rotowire.com
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Inks future deal with Kansas City
Thonton signed a reserve/future contract with Kansas City on Tuesday, Charles Goldman of A to Z Sports reports.
Analysis: Thornton was waived by the Patriots in mid-November after a disappointing six-game stretch to start the 2024 season, during which he logged just four catches on eight targets for 47 yards. The 2022 second-round pick landed on Kansas City's practice squad Nov. 18, and while he wasn't ever elevated to the active roster, Thornton will have an opportunity to work out with Kansas City during OTAs, minicamp and training camp.
Published: Tue, Feb 11 at 3:21pm by Rotowire.com
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Finds new opportunity
Thornton signed with the Chiefs' practice squad Monday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Thornton was waived by the Patriots on Saturday after a disappointing three-year run in New England. The Baylor product was selected in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the team but never lived up to expectations. Thornton had been a healthy scratch each of the last two weeks, but he'll now have an opportunity for a fresh start in Kansas City.
Published: Mon, Nov 18 at 1:27pm by Rotowire.com
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Let go by New England
The Patriots waived Thornton on Saturday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
Analysis: Selected with the 50th pick overall by New England in the 2022 NFL Draft, Thornton never lived up to expectations over the first two and a half years of his NFL career, partially due to injuries that limited him to just nine appearances in 2023. He's generally stayed healthy in 2024 but has been unable to carve out a regular role in the wideout rotation, as Thornton had been a healthy inactive in four of the previous five contests. The 24-year-old receiver will be a casualty on the 53-man…read more
Published: Sat, Nov 16 at 4:15pm by Rotowire.com
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Inactive Sunday
Thornton (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Bears.
Analysis: Thornton was also a healthy scratch in Week 9. In his absence versus Chicago, DeMario Douglas, Kayshon Boutte, Kendrick Bourne, Ja'Lynn Polk, Javon Baker and K.J. Osborn will handle the Patriots' wideout duties.
Published: Sun, Nov 10 at 8:48am by Rotowire.com
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Inactive Sunday
Thornton is inactive for Sunday's game against the Titans.
Analysis: With Thornton and K.J. Osborn not in uniform Sunday, DeMario Douglas, Kayshon Boutte, Kendrick Bourne, Ja'Lynn Polk and Javon Baker are available to handle the Patriots' Week 9 wideout duties. In the wake of his healthy scratch Sunday, it's possible that Thornton could be moved ahead of the NFL trade deadline.
Published: Sun, Nov 3 at 8:47am by Rotowire.com
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Cleared for Week 9
Thornton (ankle) doesn't carry an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Titans.
Analysis: After being limited Thursday, Thornton practiced fully Friday, which paves the way for him to be available Sunday against Tennessee. That said, the 2022 second-rounder isn't a high-percentage profile fantasy option these days while working in a wideout corps that also includes DeMario Douglas, Kayshon Boutte, Kendrick Bourne, Ja'Lynn Polk and K.J. Osborn.
Published: Fri, Nov 1 at 2:39pm by Rotowire.com
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Added to injury report
Thornton (ankle) was limited at practice Thursday.
Analysis: Thornton practiced fully Wednesday, so it's possible that he tweaked his ankle during Thursday's session. If Thornton is available Sunday against the Titans, he'd profile as a low-percentage fantasy option while working in a New England wideout corps that also includes DeMario Douglas, Kayshon Boutte, Kendrick Bourne and Ja'Lynn Polk (concussion).
Published: Thu, Oct 31 at 2:42pm by Rotowire.com
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Two catches versus Jets
Thornton caught two of his three targets for 20 yards in Sunday's 25-22 win over the Jets.
Analysis: Ja'Lynn Polk was out Sunday due to a concussion, so Thornton returned from two straight healthy scratches to log 12 of a possible 67 snaps on offense, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com. As long as Thornton continues to work behind DeMario Douglas, Kayshon Boutte and Kendrick Bourne, however, the 2022 second-rounder will remain off the fantasy radar in all but the deepest of formats.
Published: Mon, Oct 28 at 7:26am by Rotowire.com
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On track to play Sunday
Thornton, who has been a healthy scratch the last two games, is in line to be active Sunday against the Jets, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Per head coach Jerod Mayo, Thornton has "had a great week of practice. Hopefully it translates." With Ja'Lynn Polk dealing with a concussion, Thornton should have an opportunity to work into the Patriots' wideout rotation Week 8 behind DeMario Douglas, Kayshon Boutte and Kendrick Bourne, but until the speedster puts up some consistent production he's off the fantasy lineup radar. In five games thus far, Thornton has caught two of his five targets for 27 yards.
Published: Fri, Oct 25 at 8:31am by Rotowire.com
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Healthy inactive once again
Thornton (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Jaguars in London.
Analysis: After playing just one snap in the Patriots' Week 5 loss to the Dolphins, Thornton now finds himself as a healthy inactive for the second week in a row. The 2022 second-round pick looks to have fallen out of favor in New England and may need the Patriots to lose another receiver to injury before he gets another opportunity to suit up for a game.
Published: Sun, Oct 20 at 5:34am by Rotowire.com
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Inactive versus Houston
Thornton is inactive for Sunday's game against the Texans, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.
Analysis: Thornton and Javon Baker are healthy scratches for Sunday's contest. As a result, the Patriots' Week 6 WR corps will be comprised of Ja'Lynn Polk, Kendrick Bourne, DeMario Douglas, K.J. Osborn and Kayshon Boutte.
Published: Sun, Oct 13 at 8:54am by Rotowire.com
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Just one snap Sunday
Thornton was one the field for only one of a possible 60 snaps on offense in Sunday's 15-10 loss to the Dolphins, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Though K.J. Osborn (shoulder) was inactive, Kendrick Bourne (knee) returned to action Sunday and Kayshon Boutte logged 40 snaps. With his playing time tapering off, Thornton is far from the fantasy radar, with Chris Mason of masslive.com suggesting that the 2022 second-rounder could be a trade candidate.
Published: Mon, Oct 7 at 8:34am by Rotowire.com
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Limited role Sunday
Thornton logged 13 of a possible 64 snaps on offense in Sunday's 30-13 loss to the 49ers, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Thornton failed to catch his only target Sunday, and was out-snapped in the contest by Ja'Lynn Polk (53), K.J. Osborn (42), DeMario Douglas (38) and even Kayshon Boutte (15). With Kendrick Bourne (knee) progressing toward a return to action soon, Thornton's path to fantasy relevance is getting increasingly narrow.
Published: Mon, Sep 30 at 7:36am by Rotowire.com
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Held without a catch Thursday
Thornton logged 17 of a possible 52 snaps on offense in Thursday's 24-3 loss to the Jets, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: In the process, Thornton did not catch his only target in the contest. With a 2-27-0 receiving line through three games, the 2022 second-rounder is off the fantasy radar while working as the Patriots' No. 4 WR behind DeMario Douglas, K.J. Osborn and Ja'Lynn Polk.
Published: Fri, Sep 20 at 9:13am by Rotowire.com
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No targets in Week 2
Thornton logged 31 of 68 snaps on offense in Sunday's 23-20 overtime loss to the Seahawks.
Analysis: Thornton was out-snapped by K.J. Osborn (51 snaps), Ja'Lynn Polk (41 snaps) and DeMario Douglas (38 snaps) and wasn't targeted in the contest. As Thursday's game against the Jets approaches, the 2022 second-round pick is only a lineup option in the deepest of formats.
Published: Mon, Sep 16 at 12:29pm by Rotowire.com
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Two catches versus Bengals
Thornton, who was on the field for 38 of 65 snaps on offense in the Patriots' 16-10 season-opening win over the Bengals on Sunday, caught two of his three targets for 27 yards, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Thornton was in the Patriots' starting lineup along with DeMario Douglas (39 snaps) and K.J. Osborn (40 snaps), whilerookie second-rounder Ja'Lynn Polk was also out there for 35 snaps in Week 1. Though Thornton appears to be carving out a steady role in the team's passing offense in 2024, he won't be a reliable fantasy lineup option until or unless he sees consistent looks from QB Jacoby Brissett, or 2024 third overall pick Drake Maye once he takes the reins.
Published: Mon, Sep 9 at 8:05am by Rotowire.com
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Starts preseason finale
Thornton recorded one catch (on three targets) for four yards in Sunday's 20-10 preseason loss to the Commanders.
Analysis: Thornton paired with K.J. Osborn as a starting outside receiver, and he entered the game ahead of the likes of Ja'Lynn Polk and Javon Baker. That may not remain the case in Week 1 against Cincinnati, but New England looks poised to rotate its receiving corps, so Thornton should see the field plenty even if he isn't the first on the field.
Published: Sun, Aug 25 at 9:34pm by Rotowire.com
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Carving out role in third season
Thornton, who Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site projects to make the team's 53-man roster, has been running with New England's top offense this summer.
Analysis: Per Lazar, the 2022 second-rounder, who is playing at 192 pounds these days, looks more sturdy on the field with the added weight. Thornton struggled to stay healthy over his first two years as a pro, but he now has a chance to emerge as a field-stretcher in the Patriots offense. Whether such a role yields enough volume for him to make a fantasy impact remains to be seen, with DeMario Douglas, Ja'Lynn Polk, K.J. Osborn and Javon Baker also in the mix for targets in New England's re-tooled WR…read more
Published: Tue, Aug 20 at 10:25am by Rotowire.com
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Nine snaps versus Philadelphia
Thornton was on the field for nine snaps on offense in Thursday's 14-13 preseason loss to the Eagles.
Analysis: Thornton didn't see any targets in his limited action versus Philadelphia, but he did line up with the starting offense for the second straight exhibition contest. He has a chance to parlay his speed into a role in a Patriots' wideout corps that could be without Kendrick Bourne (knee) early on, competing for snaps with DeMario Douglas, Ja'Lynn Polk, K.J. Osborn, Javon Baker, Kayshon Boutte and Jalen Reagor.
Published: Fri, Aug 16 at 9:42am by Rotowire.com
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Limited snaps Thursday
Thornton didn't catch his lone target in Thursday's 17-3 preseason win over the Panthers.
Analysis: Thornton logged just seven snaps in the contest, but it's notable that the speedster opened up the contest with the Patriots' starters. In his third season as a pro, the 2022 second-rounder is competing for a role in a wide open New England WR corps, but as Evan Lazar of the team's official site notes, Thornton's start and subsequent quick exit Thursday could bode well for his roster standing.
Published: Fri, Aug 9 at 9:19am by Rotowire.com
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Puts on muscle in offseason
Thornton now weighs 192 pounds, up from his listed weight of 185 pounds, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.
Analysis: The 2022 second-round pick is still quite thin for a wide receiver, but it's an improvement from the 2022 Combine, when he checked in at 6-foot-2, 181 pounds. The 4.28 speed he showcased at said combine hasn't gotten him far in the NFL, with Thornton now on the roster bubble after catching 35 passes in 22 games over his first two NFL seasons. He may end up competing for one spot with Jalen Reagor, a fellow speedster (and draft bust) who offers more potential to contribute on special teams.
Published: Sun, Jul 28 at 1:42pm by Rotowire.com
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Role this season TBD
With the Patriots having selected two wide receivers in the 2024 NFL Draft, Thornton's standing on the team's depth chart is unclear ahead of training camp, per Chad Graff of the Athletic.
Analysis: In his post-draft roster assessment, Graff suggests that Thornton, who is presumably past the ankle issue that sidelined him in the Patriots' 2023 regular-season finale, isn't a roster lock ahead of Week 1. Over the first two years of his pro career, the 2022 second-rounder has had trouble staying on the field and has been limited to 35 catches in 22 contests in that span. While Thornton's speed could help him stick around if he has a strong summer, for now he currently has Kendrick Bourne,…read more
Published: Tue, May 7 at 11:46am by Rotowire.com
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Catches 13 passes in 2023
Thornton finished the 2023 season with 13 catches (on 23 targets) for 91 yards and three carries for 51 yards in nine games for the Patriots.
Analysis: The Patriots traded up in the 2022 NFL Draft to draft Thornton 50th overall, but the 6-foot-2, 185-pounder has struggled to stay on the field during his first two years as a pro. With that in mind, an ankle issue sidelined Thornton for the team's season finale, but he'll presumably be healthy ahead of the 2024 campaign. The Baylor product -- who is under contract with New England through the 2025 season -- does have the speed to potentially make an impact as a deep threat, but his role next…read more
Published: Thu, Jan 11 at 6:11am by Rotowire.com
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Won't play Sunday
Thornton (ankle) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Jets.
Analysis: Thornton approached the contest listed as questionable after logging a limited practice Friday, and he'll end up missing the Patriots' season finale. In his absence, DeVante Parker, Demario Douglas, Jalen Reagor and Kayshon Boutte will handle the team's Week 18 WR duties. The 2022 second-rounder thus finishes the 2023 campaign with 13 catches on 23 targets for 91 yards in nine games.
Published: Sun, Jan 7 at 8:49am by Rotowire.com
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Questionable with ankle injury
Thornton (ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Jets.
Analysis: Thornton and fellow wide receiver DeVante Parker (ribs) are both questionable for Sunday's season finale. Thornton had a season-high 24 receiving yards after Parker exited early in the Week 17 loss to Buffalo, but the second-year speedster's ceiling will be capped regardless of his teammate's status, especially against the stingy Jets secondary.
Published: Fri, Jan 5 at 1:34pm by Rotowire.com
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Three catches Sunday
Thornton caught all three of his targets for 24 yards in Sunday's 27-21 loss to the Bills.
Analysis: With DeVante Parker exiting the contest with a rib injury, Thornton, who logged five snaps Week 16, saw an uptick in playing time (37 snaps) Sunday. If Parker ends up sidelined for the Patriots' season finale against the Jets this weekend, Thornton could continue to see added opportunities Week 18, but even then, he'd only be a lineup option in the deepest of fantasy formats.
Published: Mon, Jan 1 at 9:22am by Rotowire.com
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One catch in Week 16
Thornton was on the field for five of 58 snaps on offense in Sunday's 26-23 win over the Broncos, catching his only target for 11 yards.
Analysis: Even with JuJu Smith-Schuster (ankle) inactive, Thornton saw limited usage. The 2022 second-rounder has two more games in which to make his mark before the 2023 season ends, but with just 10 catches for 67 yards on 20 targets in eight games to date, he remains off the fantasy radar.
Published: Mon, Dec 25 at 6:51am by Rotowire.com
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Limited role Sunday
Thornton was on the field for seven of a possible 53 snaps on offense in Sunday's 27-17 loss to Kansas City, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: With DeVante Parker (48 snaps) and Demario Douglas (38 snaps) both back in action Sunday, along with Jalen Reagor logging 29 snaps, Thornton's role in the offense declined Week 15. In the process, Thornton caught his lone target in the contest for five yards. The 2022 second-rounder will remain off the fantasy radar unless injuries thin out New England's wideout corps down the stretch.
Published: Mon, Dec 18 at 9:45am by Rotowire.com
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Suits up Sunday
Thornton (hamstring) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Chiefs.
Analysis: Thornton was listed as questionable for the contest after logging limited practices Thursday and Friday. The 2022 second-rounder recorded a season-high 54 (of a possible 57) snaps on offense in the Patriots' 21-18 win over the Steelers on Dec. 7 en route to catching three of his five targets for 17 yards, but with fellow WRs Demario Douglas (concussion) and DeVante Parker (knee) back in action, Thornton is a speculative fantasy lineup option in Week 15.
Published: Sun, Dec 17 at 8:52am by Rotowire.com
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Questionable for Week 15
Thornton (hamstring) is questionable for Sunday's game against the Chiefs.
Analysis: Thornton was added to the injury report Thursday and finished the week with a pair of limited practices. After playing 54 of 57 snaps last week against the Steelers, Thornton will likely slide back to a depth role if he's active this week. Demario Douglas is due back from his concussion.
Published: Fri, Dec 15 at 12:51pm by Rotowire.com
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Added to injury report
Thornton (hamstring) was limited in Thursday's practice.
Analysis: Thornton practiced fully Wednesday but was added to the Patriots' Week 15 injury report after being limited a day later. Along with Thornton, Demario Douglas (concussion), DeVante Parker (knee), JuJu Smith-Schuster (ankle) and Kayshon Boutte (shoulder) also were listed as limited Thursday. With that in mind, it's possible that five New England wideouts could be listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Chiefs.
Published: Thu, Dec 14 at 2:12pm by Rotowire.com
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Catches three passes Thursday
Thornton logged a season-high 54 (of a possible 57) snaps on offense in Thursday's 21-18 win over the Steelers, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: With fellow WRs Demario Douglas (concussion), DeVante Parker (knee) and Kayshon Boutte (shoulder) all inactive, Thornton drew the start alongside JuJu Smith-Schuster, who led the team with 90 receiving yards. Thornton, on the other hand, finished with three catches for 17 yards on five targets, failing to take advantage of a big opportunity. With New England's next game coming 10 days after Thursday's win -- Dec. 17 against the Chiefs -- the team's wideout corps could be less thinned-out for…read more
Published: Fri, Dec 8 at 7:54am by Rotowire.com
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Held without a catch Sunday
Thornton logged 51 of a possible 64 snaps on offense in Sunday's 6-0 loss to the Chargers, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: While Thornton gained 39 yards on an end around, per Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site, his lone target in the contest came on a deep pass from QB Bailey Zappe that slipped through the wideout's hands, according to Mark Daniels of Masslive.com. The 2022 second-rounder saw added snaps Sunday with Demario Douglas (concussion) out, but regardless of whether or not Douglas is available Thursday night against the Steelers, Thornton remains off the fantasy radar given that he's been limited…read more
Published: Mon, Dec 4 at 9:50am by Rotowire.com
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Two catches in Sunday's loss
Thornton caught two of his five targets for 19 yards and rushed once for three yards in Sunday's 10-7 loss to the Giants.
Analysis: Per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, Thornton's 30 snaps on offense (out of a possible 68) marked a season high, but it didn't yield much production for the 2022 second-rounder. It's possible that Thornton's role could grow as the season progresses, but with just five catches (on 12 targets) for 34 yards through four games to date, he's off the fantasy radar.
Published: Mon, Nov 27 at 10:22am by Rotowire.com
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Active Sunday, but no snaps
Thornton didn't log any snaps in Sunday's 10-6 loss to the Colts, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Thornton wasn't on the Patriots' Week 10 injury report, so the fact that the 2022 second-rounder didn't take the field Sunday is a bit puzzling. Either way, heading into his team's Week 11 bye, Thornton is off the fantasy radar.
Published: Mon, Nov 13 at 9:28am by Rotowire.com
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Logs 12 snaps in Week 9
Thornton logged 12 of a possible 64 snaps on offense in Sunday's 20-17 loss to the Commanders while catching one of his four targets for seven yards, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Per Reiss, all of Thornton's Week 9 snaps came on the Patriots' first three series, with coach Bill Belichick confirming that Thornton -- who had approached the contest dealing with a foot injury -- was available for action afterward. With just three catches on seven targets for 15 yards in three games to date, Thornton is off the fantasy radar for now.
Published: Mon, Nov 6 at 9:31am by Rotowire.com
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Suits up Sunday
Thornton (foot) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Commanders.
Analysis: Thornton was added to the Patriots' injury report Friday after being limited due to a foot issue, but he'll be available Sunday, while Kendrick Bourne (knee/IR) and DeVante Parker (concussion) won't be. With that in mind, Thornton has a chance to reclaim a role in the team's offense after being a healthy scratch last weekend, but what sort of volume he might see in Week 9 is unclear, with Demario Douglas, JuJu Smith-Schuster and Jalen Reagor also in the WR mix Sunday.
Published: Sun, Nov 5 at 8:44am by Rotowire.com
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Added to injury report
Thornton (foot) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Commanders after being limited at practice Friday, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.
Analysis: Thornton practiced fully Wednesday and Thursday but was added to the injury report Friday due to a foot issue. With Kendrick Bourne (knee) on IR and DeVante Parker (concussion) out Sunday, Thornton could reclaim a role in the Patriots offense if he's available Week 9 after being a healthy inactive last weekend. That said, the 2022 second-rounder needs to turn in a full and productive game in order to merit fantasy consideration while working in a WR corps that also includes Demario Douglas,…read more
Published: Fri, Nov 3 at 1:20pm by Rotowire.com
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Could reclaim role in Week 9
Thornton has a chance to reclaim a role in the Patriots offense in the coming weeks after Kendrick Bourne (knee) suffered a season-ending ACL tear in Sunday's loss to the Dolphins, Evan Lazar of the team's official site reports.
Analysis: Thornton was a healthy inactive Week 8, but with Bourne now on injured reserve and the status of DeVante Parker (concussion) in jeopardy for Sunday's game against the Commanders, the Patriots should at the very least keep Thornton active Week 9. However, with Demario Douglas, JuJu Smith-Schuster and Jalen Reagor projected to serve as the Patriots' top three receivers Sunday if Parker joins Bourne on the sideline, Thornton may only be in store for a small role as the team's No. 4 wideout. The…read more
Published: Wed, Nov 1 at 8:25am by Rotowire.com
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Inactive versus Miami
Thornton (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Dolphins.
Analysis: With Thornton a healthy scratch Sunday, the Patriots' Week 8 WR corps will be comprised of Kendrick Bourne, DeVante Parker, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Demario Douglas and Jalen Reagor. In two games to date, Thornton has caught two of his three targets for eight yards.
Published: Sun, Oct 29 at 8:55am by Rotowire.com
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Catches one pass Sunday
Thornton was on the field for three of a possible 60 snaps on offense in Sunday's 29-25 win over the Bills, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: In a game in which he was out-snapped by Kendrick Bourne (56), Demario Douglas (37), DeVante Parker (35) and Jalen Reagor (25), Thornton caught his only target for two yards. While there's a chance that the speedy Thornton could make his mark as a deep threat in the coming weeks, he doesn't have a clear path to a high-volume role in the Patriots' passing attack at this stage.
Published: Mon, Oct 23 at 9:41am by Rotowire.com
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One catch in season debut
Thornton logged 25 of a possible 60 snaps on offense in Sunday's 21-17 loss to the Raiders en route to catching one of his two targets for six yards, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Thornton, who had been on IR with a shoulder injury, was activated ahead of Week 6 action and worked as the Patriots' No. 3 wide receiver in the contest, with both JuJu Smith-Schuster (concussion) and Demario Douglas (concussion) out. Looking ahead, Thornton could potentially emerge as a deep threat for the team, but with DeVante Parker and Kendrick Bourne also in the WR mix, the 2022 second-rounder doesn't currently have a path to steady weekly volume.
Published: Mon, Oct 16 at 10:01am by Rotowire.com
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Back in action Sunday
Thornton (shoulder) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Raiders, Ben Volin of The Boston Globe reports.
Analysis: Thornton was activated off injured reserve Saturday and is thus available to bolster a WR corps that will be without with JuJu Smith-Schuster (concussion) and Demario Douglas (concussion) on Sunday. In that context, the speedy Thornton can step into a role in the team's Week 6 offense alongside DeVante Parker and Kendrick Bourne, with Jalen Reagor also on hand.
Published: Sun, Oct 15 at 12:00pm by Rotowire.com
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Activated off IR
Thornton (shoulder) was activated off injured reserve Saturday and is listed as questionable for Sunday's matchup versus the Raiders, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: The Patriots will likely need Thornton to make his season debut with JuJu Smith-Schuster (concussion) and Demario Douglas (concussion) both not playing Sunday. Thornton, a second-year wideout, tallied only 22 catches for 247 yards and two touchdowns across 13 games last season, but he's a home-run threat for an offense that is desperate for some big-play potential.
Published: Sat, Oct 14 at 1:39pm by Rotowire.com
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Questionable, yet to be activated
Thornton (shoulder) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game in Vegas, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.
Analysis: There's optimism around the team that Thornton will be able to make his season debut and bolster New England's banged-up receiving corps, which will be without JuJu Smith-Schuster (concussion) and Demario Douglas (concussion). In order to play, Thornton will first need to be officially activated from injured reserve. His 21-day window to return from IR was opened Tuesday.
Published: Fri, Oct 13 at 12:58pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited practice Wednesday
Thornton (shoulder) was a limited participant at Wednesday's practice.
Analysis: After being designated for return from injured reserve Tuesday, Thornton took part in practice a day later for the first time during the regular season. The Patriots will have 21 days to evaluate Thornton for a return from injured reserve, and though he may have a chance to play this Sunday at Las Vegas, he would likely need to practice fully by Friday in order to do so. As a rookie last season, Thornton caught 22 passes for 247 yards and two touchdowns on 45 targets and carried three times for…read more
Published: Wed, Oct 11 at 7:18pm by Rotowire.com
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Has 21-day window opened
The Patriots designated Thornton (shoulder) for return from injured reserve Tuesday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: New England held an unofficial session Tuesday, and Thornton's showed enough for the team to open a 21-day window in which to evaluate him for a potential return to the active roster. He's been impacted by a shoulder injury since Aug. 17 and so far has missed five games to begin the campaign. How Thornton is listed on the Patriots' first Week 6 practice report Wednesday may give a sense of his likelihood of returning Sunday at Las Vegas.
Published: Tue, Oct 10 at 2:19pm by Rotowire.com
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Returning to practice
Thornton (shoulder) is slated to participate in Tuesday's unofficial practice, Mark Daniels of The Providence Journal reports.
Analysis: It's unclear if the Patriots will officially designate Thornton to return from injured reserve Tuesday, but he's making his first visible progress through the shoulder injury that has sidelined him since Aug. 17. Assuming that transaction takes place, he'll have a 21-day window from that point in which to prove his health and get back on the active roster.
Published: Tue, Oct 10 at 9:41am by Rotowire.com
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Not cleared to practice
Thornton (shoulder) wasn't designated to return from injured reserve ahead of either of the Patriots' two practices this week and appears set to remain out for Sunday's game against the Saints, Zack Cox of NESN.com reports.
Analysis: After being placed on IR on Aug. 31 with the shoulder injury, Thornton has now missed the requisite four games and is eligible to play beginning this week. However, with Thornton having yet to reach the point in his recovery where he's able to practice, the second-year wideout looks as though he'll stick on IR for at least another week. Whenever the Patriots decide Thornton is fit to practice, the team will then have a 21-day window to evaluate him for a return to the 53-man roster.
Published: Thu, Oct 5 at 11:25am by Rotowire.com
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Placed on IR
The Patriots placed Thornton (shoulder) on injured reserve Thursday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: As a result, Thornton will miss at least the first four weeks of the upcoming campaign while he recovers from a shoulder issue. In his absence, the Patriots' WR corps will be led by the veteran trio of JuJu Smith-Schuster, DeVante Parker and Kendrick Bourne, with 2023 sixth-rounders Demario Douglas and Kayshon Boutte on hand to work in complementary roles in the team's passing game out of the gate this season.
Published: Thu, Aug 31 at 2:08pm by Rotowire.com
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Expected to be placed on IR
The Patriots are expected to place Thornton (shoulder) on injured reserve prior to Week 1, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Assuming that's the case, Thornton would be in line to miss the first four weeks of the season and would presumably target a return to game action Oct. 8 versus the Saints. As the regular season approaches, the Patriots' wideout corps is led by JuJu Smith-Schuster, DeVante Parker and Kendrick Bourne. Rookies Demario Douglas and Kayshon Boutte profile as the top reserve options.
Published: Wed, Aug 30 at 1:11pm by Rotowire.com
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Could land on IR
Thornton (shoulder) isn't practicing Wednesday and may soon be placed on injured reserve, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Thornton is in danger of missing the start of the season but should be healthy at some point this fall. It isn't clear Thornton would be handling a key role even if healthy, as he appeared to slide down the receiver depth chart this summer even before missing practice. The Patriots have three veterans starters in JuJu Smith-Schuster, DeVante Parker and Kendrick Bourne, plus two sixth-round rookies in Demario Douglas (shoulder) and Kayshon Boutte.
Published: Wed, Aug 30 at 11:19am by Rotowire.com
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Not expected to play Friday
Thornton (undisclosed) isn't slated to play in Friday's preseason contest at Tennessee, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.
Analysis: Thornton hasn't practiced since Aug. 17, when he suffered an undisclosed injury that will sideline him for the Patriots' final two exhibitions. With Thornton sidelined, the team's potentially available wide receivers Friday are JuJu Smith-Schuster, DeVante Parker, Kendrick Bourne and Demario Douglas, among others. Thornton's next opportunity for game action is a Week 1 matchup with the Eagles on Sunday, Sept. 10.
Published: Fri, Aug 25 at 5:04pm by Rotowire.com
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Misses practice Wednesday
Thornton (undisclosed) didn't practice Wednesday, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.
Analysis: Unless he returns to the field in some fashion Thursday, Thornton looks as though he'll end up missing Friday's preseason finale versus the Titans. Whenever he returns to the field, the 2022 second-round pick will have to make up some ground in order to secure a steady role in the Patriots offense early on this season. As the depth chart currently stands, JuJu Smith-Schuster, DeVante Parker and Kendrick Bourne profile as the team's top three receivers, with Thornton and rookies Demario Douglas…read more
Published: Wed, Aug 23 at 12:52pm by Rotowire.com
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Not playing Saturday
Thornton (undisclosed) wasn't in uniform ahead of Saturday's preseason contest against the Packers, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.
Analysis: Thornton exited practice early Thursday and didn't return, so his absence isn't much of a surprise. The 2022 second-rounder will need to get back on the field soon in order to secure a key Week 1 role in a Patriots WR corps that also features JuJu Smith-Schuster, DeVante Parker and Kendrick Bourne.
Published: Sat, Aug 19 at 4:38pm by Rotowire.com
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Leaves practice early Thursday
Thornton (undisclosed) exited practice early Thursday and didn't return, Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald reports.
Analysis: Thornton left after catching a deep ball from Mac Jones. The 50th overall pick in last year's NFL Draft, Thornton has had a quiet summer after generating some spring buzz in pad-less practices. Sixth-round rookie Demario Douglas may be passing Thornton on the depth chart behind veterans DeVante Parker and JuJu Smith-Schuster.
Published: Thu, Aug 17 at 11:55am by Rotowire.com
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Catches two passes Thursday
Thornton caught both of his targets for 31 yards in Thursday's 20-9 preseason loss to the Texans.
Analysis: With veteran wideouts JuJu Smith-Schuster, DeVante Parkerand Kendrick Bourne held out of the contest, along with multiple other key players, Thornton ended up logging 14 snaps versus Houston, with the highlight of his evening coming on a 27-yard leaping grab of a Bailey Zappe pass. As the 2023 season approaches, the speedy Thornton has an opportunity to serve as an outside deep threat for the Patriots, but as long as Smith-Schuster, Parker and Bourne are all available, steady targets may be…read more
Published: Fri, Aug 11 at 9:26am by Rotowire.com
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Sees plenty of reps Sunday
Thornton (undisclosed) saw his most extensive practice reps of the summer on Sunday, Paul Perillo of the Patriots' official site reports.
Analysis: While Thornton reportedly has had a quiet training camp thus far, the 2022 second-grounder's speed does give him the ability to provide the Patriots offense with an outside deep threat. That said, it remains to be seen if the Baylor product will see steady volume out of the gate this coming season. Also in the mix for WR targets are JuJu Smith-Schuster, DeVante Parker and Kendrick Bourne, while the team's top TE combo of Hunter Henry and Mike Gesicki also figure to see their share of looks from…read more
Published: Mon, Aug 7 at 9:29am by Rotowire.com
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Limited again
Thornton (undisclosed) remained limited at practice Thursday, Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald reports.
Analysis: Thornton, who was also limited Wednesday, is off to a slow start in training camp, and the 2022 second-rounder will have some catching up to do once he resumes practicing fully. When healthy, the Baylor product has the speed to provide the Patriots offense with a deep threat, but steady volume may be hard to come by for Thornton out of the gate this season, with JuJu Smith-Schuster, DeVante Parker and Kendrick Bourne also in the team's wideout mix.
Published: Thu, Aug 3 at 8:40am by Rotowire.com
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Off to slow start in camp
Thornton (undisclosed) was spotted heading to the conditioning field during Wednesday's practice, Zack Cox of NESN.com reports.
Analysis: The Patriots haven't revealed what prompted Thornton's visit to the tent, but Cox notes that "it's been a quiet camp" thus far for the second-year wideout, who hasn't yet logged any catches from quarterback Mac Jones in full-team drills. Thornton still has time to pick up the pace, which is what he'll need to do in order to carve out a steady role in a New England wideout corps that also includes JuJu Smith-Schuster, DeVante Parker and Kendrick Bourne.
Published: Wed, Aug 2 at 8:41am by Rotowire.com
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Standing out at OTAs
Thornton was "at the epicenter of several schematic tricks" that offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien installed at Wednesday's OTA practice, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official website reports.
Analysis: Selected 50th overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, Thornton's rookie season started with missing the first four weeks of the season due to injury and then catching just 22 passes for 247 yards and two touchdowns on 45 targets across 13 contests. His speed is standing out at OTAs, however, and Thornton's "route-running precision and pacing to create separation were better than his rookie training camp," according to Lazar. O'Brien has made it a point to feature Thornton's speed in practices. The…read more
Published: Wed, May 31 at 4:07pm by Rotowire.com
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Catches 22 passes as a rookie
Thornton finished the 2022 season with 22 catches on 45 targets for 247 yards and two TDs in 13 games.
Analysis: In his rookie campaign, the 2022 second-rounder was a complementary piece in a New England wideout corps that also included Jakobi Meyers, DeVante Parker, Kendrick Bourne and Nelson Agholor. Looking ahead, Parker, Bourne and Thornton remain under contract with the team next season, with reinforcements slated to arrive via free agency and the draft. Thornton's fantasy prospects in 2023 hinge on him seeing increased volume, which is a plausible outcome for the speedster out of Baylor pending the…read more
Published: Mon, Jan 16 at 9:50am by Rotowire.com
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Productive day in win
Thornton brought in three of seven targets for 60 yards and a touchdown in the Patriots' 23-21 win over the Dolphins on Sunday.
Analysis: The rookie speedster was the somewhat surprising leader in receiving yards and checked in second in targets for the Patriots on the afternoon. Thornton's touchdown grab came just past the midway point of the first quarter on a seven-yard catch, only the second score of his first pro season. Thornton's receiving yardage tally was also a career high, and he could once again play an important role in a critical Week 18 road battle versus the Bills.
Published: Sun, Jan 1 at 4:19pm by Rotowire.com
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Active versus Dolphins
Thornton (knee) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Dolphins.
Analysis: Given that DeVante Parker (concussion) remains out this week, Thornton should continue to see added snaps versus Miami, but with an 18/174/1 stat line on 36 targets through 11 games overall, the 2022 second-rounder isn't a high-percentage fantasy lineup option in Week 17.
Published: Sun, Jan 1 at 8:44am by Rotowire.com
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Questionable for Sunday
Thornton (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Dolphins after practicing in a limited fashion this week, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.
Analysis: Given that DeVante Parker (concussion) remains out this week, Thornton should continue to see added snaps versus Miami, but with an 18/174/1 stat line on 36 targets through 11 games overall, the 2022 second-rounder isn't a high-percentage fantasy option in Week 17.
Published: Fri, Dec 30 at 1:38pm by Rotowire.com
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Logs limited practice
Thornton (knee) was a limited participant at practice Wednesday.
Analysis: While being listed as questionable ahead of this past Saturday's loss to the Bengals, Thornton suited up and logged 52 of 56 snaps on offense and finished with one catch for eight yards on three targets. With no reported setbacks coming out of that contest, Thornton's listed limitations Wednesday could well be maintenance-related. Either way, with an 18-174-1 receiving line on 36 targets through his first 11 career games, the rookie wideout is off the radar in most fantasy leagues.
Published: Wed, Dec 28 at 2:18pm by Rotowire.com
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Catches one pass versus Bengals
Thornton was on the field for 52 of a possible 56 snaps on offense in Saturday's 22-18 loss to the Bengals en route to catching one of his three targets for eight yards in the contest, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Despite seeing added snaps of late with DeVante Parker (concussion) sidelined, Thornton has posted back-to-back one-catch efforts. Heading into the Patriots' last two regular-season contests, the 2022 second-rounder remains off the fantasy radar in all but the deepest of formats.
Published: Mon, Dec 26 at 9:00am by Rotowire.com
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Suits up versus Bengals
Thornton (knee) is listed as active for Saturday's game against the Bengals.
Analysis: With DeVante Parker (concussion) inactive, Thornton should continue to see added snaps Saturday, but with a 17/166/1 stat line on 33 targets through 10 games overall, the 2022 second-rounder remains a speculative fantasy lineup option in Week 16.
Published: Sat, Dec 24 at 8:56am by Rotowire.com
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Questionable to face Bengals
Thornton (knee) is listed as questionable for Saturday's game against the Bengals after practicing in a limited fashion Wednesday and Thursday, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.
Analysis: If active Saturday, Thornton could see added Week 16 snaps with DeVante Parker (concussion) still out. However, having logged a total of 17 catches for 166 yards and a TD on 33 targets through 10 games overall, the 2022 second-rounder remains a speculative fantasy lineup option as the Patriots' stretch run approaches.
Published: Thu, Dec 22 at 2:58pm by Rotowire.com
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Added to injury report
Thornton was a limited participant at practice Wednesday due to a knee issue.
Analysis: Thornton wasn't listed on Tuesday's estimated practice report, so his limitations Wednesday are worth noting. The Patriots' final injury report of the week will be issued Thursday and will reveal whether or not the rookie wideout approaches Saturday's game against the Bengals with an injury designation.
Published: Wed, Dec 21 at 2:41pm by Rotowire.com
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Catches one pass Sunday
Thornton logged 60 of a possible 65 snaps on offense en route to catching one of his four targets for 21 yards in Sunday's 30-24 loss to the Raiders, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Thornton saw added work Week 15 with DeVante Parker (concussion) out, but with QB Mac Jones throwing for just 112 yards, the 2022 second-rounder -- who caught four passes Week 14 -- didn't yield much production from a fantasy perspective. With 17 catches for 166 yards and a TD on 33 targets in 10 games, Thornton is off the lineup radar in all but the deepest of formats.
Published: Mon, Dec 19 at 10:01am by Rotowire.com
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Four catches versus Cardinals
Thornton, who was on the field for 52 of a possible 59 snaps on offense in Monday's 27-13 win over the Cardinals, caught four of his five targets for 28 yards in the contest.
Analysis: Thornton saw an uptick in snaps with Jakobi Meyers (concussion) inactive and DeVante Parker (head) limited to just six snaps in the contest. If one or both of his fellow WRs are cleared to play this coming Sunday against the Raiders, the rookie wideout will profile as a risky Week 15 fantasy option.
Published: Tue, Dec 13 at 8:51am by Rotowire.com
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Catches two passes in Week 13
Thornton caught two of his three targets for 31 yards in Thursday's 24-10 loss to the Bills.
Analysis: The rookie wideout was on the field for 21 of a possible 54 snaps on offense in the contest, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com. With 12 catches on 24 targets for 117 yards and a TD in eight games to date, the 2022 second-rounder isn't seeing steady enough volume at this stage to merit fantasy attention in all but the deepest of formats.
Published: Fri, Dec 2 at 9:25am by Rotowire.com
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Not targeted against Vikings
Thornton went without a target in Thursday's 33-26 loss to the Vikings.
Analysis: Even though he technically started Thursday, Thornton saw his role slip Week 12 while veterans Nelson Agholor and Kendrick Bourne took on more work. As a result, Thornton was limited to just 20 snaps on Thanksgiving Day and failed to see a target for the first time in any of his seven games this season.
Published: Fri, Nov 25 at 9:44am by Rotowire.com
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Catches one pass Sunday
Thornton logged 17 of a possible 63 snaps on offense in Sunday's 10-3 win over the Jets, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Thornton's Week 11 snap count represented a season low, and for the fourth consecutive game, the 2022 second-rounder caught just one pass (on two targets) for five yards. Until steady volume heads his way, Thornton is off the fantasy radar while working in a New England wideout corps that also includes Jakobi Meyers, DeVante Parker, Kendrick Bourne and Nelson Agholor.
Published: Mon, Nov 21 at 9:39am by Rotowire.com
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One catch in Week 9
Thornton logged 42 of a possible 63 snaps on offense in Sunday's 26-3 win over the Colts en route to catching one of his four targets for five yards, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Since scoring two TDs in Week 6 against the Browns, Thornton has caught one pass in each of his last three games. The 2022 second-rounder is off the fantasy radar for now, with Jakobi Meyers being the only New England wide receiver producing consistently enough to merit weekly lineup consideration.
Published: Mon, Nov 7 at 9:47am by Rotowire.com
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Logs 61 snaps in Week 8
Thornton, who was on the field for 61 of a possible 78 snaps on offense in Sunday's 22-17 win over the Jets, caught one of his two targets in the contest for 13 yards, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Thornton's season-high playing time total was the result of DeVante Parker (knee) being forced out of Sunday's contest after one snap. With Parker potentially being unavailable for the Patriots' Week 9 contest against the Colts, Thornton could continue to see added work this coming weekend, but until the rookie wideout sees steady volume he'll be a speculative fantasy lineup option.
Published: Mon, Oct 31 at 10:31am by Rotowire.com
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Catches one pass Monday
Thornton was on the field for 44 of a possible 52 snaps on offense in Monday's loss to the Bears, catching one of five targets for 19 yards, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Though Nelson Agholor was back in the mix after missing a game due to a hamstring injury, he saw only three snaps as Thornton worked as the Patriots' No. 3 WR behind Jakobi Meyers and DeVante Parker. As the speedy rookie's two-TD effort in Week 6 suggests, Thornton has some playmaking upside, but in his current role he profiles as a hit-or-miss fantasy option.
Published: Tue, Oct 25 at 8:03am by Rotowire.com
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Scores two TDs in Week 6
Thornton, who was on the field for 40 of a possible 70 snaps on offense in Sunday's 38-15 win over the Browns, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, caught four of his five targets for 37 yards with a TD and carried three times for 16 yards and a rushing score in the contest.
Analysis: Thornton saw an expanded role Week 6 alongside Jakobi Meyers and DeVante Parker, with Nelson Agholor (hamstring) inactive and Kendrick Bourne limited to four snaps due to a toe injury. The 2022 second-rounder's volume and fantasy upside Week 7 versus the Bears likely hinges on the availability of Agholor and Bourne, but in any case Thornton's speed gives him the potential to make plays in the coming weeks, thus making him a sleeper candidate in deeper formats.
Published: Mon, Oct 17 at 9:29am by Rotowire.com
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Catches two passes in debut
In his regular season debut, Thornton was on the field for 25 of possible 60 snaps on offense in Sunday's 29-0 win over the Lions en route to catching two of his three targets for seven yards, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: The 2022 second-rounder missed New England's first four games due to a collarbone injury, but now that he's back in the mix, Thornton brings added speed to New England's pass-catching corps. However, with Jakobi Meyers, DeVante Parker, Nelson Agholor (hamstring) and Kendrick Bourne also in the team's WR mix, Thornton currently doesn't have a steady path to targets.
Published: Mon, Oct 10 at 11:33am by Rotowire.com
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Off injured reserve
Thornton (collarbone) was activated off injured reserve Saturday, Field Yates of ESPN reports.
Analysis: Thornton was designated to return off injured reserve earlier this week, but it's still a bit surprising to see the rookie receiver officially rejoin the active roster so soon. The 2022 second-round pick put together a dynamic training camp prior to the injury, but don't expect Thornton to be a major contributor right away, especially if rookie QB Bailey Zappe continues to fill in for the injured Mac Jones (ankle).
Published: Sat, Oct 8 at 1:53pm by Rotowire.com
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Cleared to practice
The Patriots designated Thornton (collarbone) to return from injured reserve Wednesday, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: The transaction opens a 21-day window for the rookie to practice with the team before New England would have to add him to the active roster or keep him on IR for the remainder of the season. He can return as soon as Sunday's game against the Lions if he's deemed healthy, but Thornton likely will start off in a part-time role when he first joins the New England offense.
Published: Wed, Oct 5 at 11:55am by Rotowire.com
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Placed on IR
The Patriots have placed Thornton (collarbone) on injured reserve, Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald reports.
Analysis: Thornton, who is bouncing back from a procedure to repair a fractured clavicle that he suffered on Aug. 19, thus is slated to miss at least the first four games of the coming season, with the report suggesting that the wideout's initial recovery estimate called for a potential return to action in mid-to-late October. Once Thornton gets back into the mix, he'll add speed and depth to a New England WR corps currently headed by DeVante Parker, Jakobi Meyers, Kendrick Bourne and Nelson Agholor.
Published: Thu, Sep 1 at 3:26pm by Rotowire.com
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Undergoes procedure on clavicle
Thornton underwent surgery this past Monday to repair a fractured clavicle, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: The report notes that Thornton's recovery period should be in the 6-to-8 week range, which sets the stage for the 2022 second-rounder to miss time out of the gate this season. Once he returns to action, the speedy rookie will look to carve out a role in a New England wideout corps that also currently includes DeVante Parker, Jakobi Meyers, Kendrick Bourne and Nelson Agholor.
Published: Sat, Aug 27 at 10:32am by Rotowire.com
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Likely out around eight weeks
Thornton (collarbone) is expected to miss around eight weeks, Michael Giardi of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Thornton fractured his collarbone during Friday's preseason game against Carolina and now appears likely to miss a good chunk of the regular season. While he wasn't headed for a starting job, the second-round pick reportedly had a nice training camp and was at least in the mix for snaps off the bench before this injury.
Published: Sat, Aug 20 at 1:30pm by Rotowire.com
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Diagnosed with collarbone injury
Thornton was diagnosed with a collarbone injury after leaving Friday's preseason game against Carolina, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: It sounds like Thornton is expected to be out for a while, though perhaps not the entire season. The rookie second-round pick was expected to start his career in a depth role.
Published: Sat, Aug 20 at 9:17am by Rotowire.com
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Picks up shoulder injury
Thornton won't return to Friday's preseason game against the Panthers due to a shoulder injury.
Analysis: Prior to getting ruled out in the fourth quarter, Thornton hauled in his only target for 13 yards. The severity of the injury is unknown, but his status now bears watching with just one exhibition left on the Patriots' schedule next Friday at Las Vegas.
Published: Fri, Aug 19 at 6:44pm by Rotowire.com
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Finds end zone in preseason opener
Thornton caught both of his targets for nine yards and a touchdown in Thursday's 23-21 preseason loss to the Giants.
Analysis: Thornton capped the first quarter with a two-yard touchdown catch to get the Patriots on the board, putting an exclamation point on his NFL debut. The rookie second-round pick out of Baylor was drafted to stretch the field in the methodical New England offense, but Thornton could carve out a more prominent role if he proves to be an effective option in the red zone, and Thursday's touchdown should help in that regard. Thornton will look to build on this promising debut when the Patriots host…read more
Published: Thu, Aug 11 at 8:40pm by Rotowire.com
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Looks good in training camp
Thornton, who has seen a portion of first-team reps in training camp, "looks like a player on the rise," according to Zack Cox of NESN.com.
Analysis: The Patriots traded up in April in order to select Thornton in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, 50th overall. Though the speedster is competing for targets with experienced pros DeVante Parker, Jakobi Meyers, Kendrick Bourne and Nelson Agholor, the 6-foot-2, 182-pound Baylor product is a player to watch if he's able to parlay his 4.28 speed into a a field-stretching role in the team's offense. Steady volume may not be immediate for Thornton as a rookie, but if injuries end up thinning…read more
Published: Tue, Aug 2 at 12:48pm by Rotowire.com
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