The Patriots are waiving wide receiver Tyquan Thornton on Saturday, sources told the Herald.

Thornton, a 2022 second-round pick, was a Week 1 starter but has been a healthy scratch in recent weeks after falling down the wide receiver depth chart.

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The 24-year-old speedy wideout has caught just 39 passes for 385 yards with two touchdowns in his three-year NFL career. In six games this season, Thornton has four catches for 47 yards.

Other teams can claim Thornton off waivers. If he clears waivers, then he would be eligible to sign to a practice squad.

Thornton, who ran a 4.28-second 40-yard dash before the 2022 NFL Draft, was viewed as a reach at the time. His speed never translated to the NFL level, where he’s averaged just 9.9 yards per reception. His slight frame, at 6-foot-2, 185 pounds, has also led to frequent injuries. He’s played just 28 of a possible 44 games since entering the league.

The Patriots are left with wide receivers Kayshon Boutte, DeMario Douglas, Ja’Lynn Polk, Kendrick Bourne, Javon Baker and K.J. Osborn on their 53-man roster and Braylon Sanders and John Jiles on their practice squad.

The Patriots typically dress five or six receivers but have only been regularly playing four or five wideouts per game.

Cornerback Alex Austin (injured reserve) and defensive tackle Christian Barmore (non-football illness list) are eligible to be activated to the 53-man roster after returning to practice.