Kendrick Bourne – The Comeback Begins – Kendrick Bourne, the resilient and reliable wide receiver, is once again trending as he returns to the San Francisco 49ers—his original NFL team. His homecoming comes in a dynamic landscape marked by injuries and roster gaps. At 30 years old, Bourne’s return promises to inject veteran experience and offensive stability into a team in need.
Career Snapshot
Early Years & College
- Born on August 4, 1995, in Portland, Oregon.
- Starred at Eastern Washington (2013–2016), finishing with 211 receptions, 3,130 receiving yards, and 27 touchdowns
NFL Journey
- Signed by the 49ers as an undrafted free agent in 2017. Played there through 2020, tallying 137 receptions for 1,769 yards and 11 touchdowns, and appearing in Super Bowl LIV.
- Joined the New England Patriots in 2021, eventually securing a three-year contract extension in 2024. During his Patriots tenure, he added 155 catches for 1,945 yards and 11 touchdowns.
- Released by the Patriots at his own request on August 27, 2025, after trade talks with the Vikings didn’t materialize.
49ers Reunion
The Return
Kendrick Bourne has re-signed with the San Francisco 49ers on a one-year deal worth up to $5 million.
Why It’s Big
- The 49ers’ receiving corps is hit hard by injuries and suspensions: Jauan Jennings (shoulder), Brandon Aiyuk (ACL recovery), Demarcus Robinson (suspension), and tight end George Kittle (hamstring)
- Bourne’s familiarity with head coach Kyle Shanahan’s system makes him an ideal mid-season reinforcement.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: Who is Kendrick Bourne?
A: A 30-year-old NFL wide receiver who began his career as an undrafted free agent with the 49ers in 2017. He also played for the Patriots before returning to San Francisco. Career totals: 292 receptions, 3,714 yards, 22 touchdowns across 111 games.
Q2: Why is he trending now?
A: Bourne is trending after re-signing with the 49ers on a one-year, up-to-$5 million deal, filling critical depth in the receiving corps amid multiple injuries.
Q3: How did his release from the Patriots unfold?
A: He requested his release, which was granted on August 27, 2025. A potential trade to the Vikings had fallen through, setting the stage for his return to San Francisco
Q4: What’s the significance of his return to the 49ers?
A: Reuniting with the team where he started allows Bourne to step into a familiar offense and support a receiving unit strained by injuries to key players like Aiyuk, Jennings, and Kittle.
Q5: What are his career highlights?
A:
- Undrafted entry to NFL in 2017.
- Super Bowl LIV appearance with the 49ers (2019).
- Career-best season in 2021 with 800 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns
Wrap-Up
Kendrick Bourne – The Comeback Begins – Kendrick Bourne’s comeback story is one of familiarity and opportunity. Returning to San Francisco offers both a strategic advantage for the team and a chance for Bourne to revive his career in a system he knows well. As Week 2 approaches, all eyes will be on whether this reunion brings the spark the 49ers need.
Who is the new head coach?
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