49ers Add Familiar Face Amidst Offensive Injuries

The 49ers’ wide receiver room has been significantly depleted over the past year due to a combination of unfortunate injuries and key departures. Brandon Aiyuk and Rickey Pearsall both suffered setbacks that limited their availability, while the team also saw the loss of Deebo Samuel in free agency—a major blow given his impact on the offense. These developments have raised serious concerns, as the once-formidable receiving corps quickly transformed into a notable area of weakness for San Francisco. However, the team appears to have found a promising solution by bringing back a familiar face to bolster the position. The San Francisco 49ers have agreed to sign wide receiver Kendrick Bourne to a one-year contract worth up to $5 million.

Bourne, who was released by the New England Patriots last month, has been linked to the 49ers for several weeks, generating buzz that a reunion could be imminent. At 30 years old, he brings valuable experience and versatility to a receiving unit in need of depth and playmaking ability. Bourne initially began his NFL career with the 49ers in 2017, entering the league as an undrafted free agent out of Eastern Washington. After three productive seasons in San Francisco, he moved on to New England, where he posted a standout campaign in 2021 with 800 receiving yards and five touchdowns.

Bourne’s return to San Francisco carries the potential to reignite his early-career form. Over 58 games with the 49ers, he compiled 137 receptions for 1,769 yards and 11 touchdowns, while also gaining valuable postseason experience as a member of the 2019 NFC Championship team. This background makes him a valuable asset as the 49ers work to restore strength and consistency to their receiving corps moving forward.