FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- Quick-hit thoughts and notes around the New England Patriots and NFL:
1. Receiver roulette: Prior to releasing Tyquan Thornton on Saturday, the Patriots had taken an unconventional approach by carrying seven receivers on their 53-man roster all season, which has led to dramatic shifts in who receives the most playing time.
Two weeks ago, veteran Kendrick Bourne started and played 54 of 69 snaps. He totaled four catches for 41 yards. Then last week, Bourne didn't play a single snap despite being active.
Thus, how the Patriots employ their receivers in Sunday's home game against the Los Angeles Rams (1 p.