Gambling Charges Against Patriots WR Kayshon Boutte Dropped

The state of Louisiana has dropped underage gambling charges against former LSU and current New England Patriots wide receiver Kayshon Boutte, ESPN reported Tuesday.

Boutte was arrested in January over illegal sports betting concerns after Louisiana police found that he placed nearly 9,000 sports bets totaling over $600,000 while under the age of 21.

Because Louisiana doesn’t allow bets from those under 21 years old, he allegedly used an alias to place the wagers. The former LSU standout also allegedly wagered on LSU games, including some games he competed in.

ESPN’s report didn’t clarify why the charges were dropped.

While Boutte doesn’t face criminal charges in Louisiana anymore, he could still face sanctions from the NFL. Yahoo Sports reported in late January that the NFL would investigate not only Boutte’s underage wagering allegations but also any potential infractions from his time in the NFL.

Boutte was drafted in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft by the Patriots, and he caught two passes for 19 yards as a rookie. He’s not a lock to make the team’s 53-man roster in 2024, although he’s expected to compete for a spot in the team’s crowded wide receiver room if he’s eligible.