Kendrick Bourne Stuns NFL: Patriots WR’s Career-Best Game & What It Means for the 2025 Season

San Francisco — Veteran wide receiver Kendrick Bourne is heading back to the Bay Area after agreeing to a one-year contract with the San Francisco 49ers worth up to $5 million, according to multiple reports. The reunion fills an urgent need for head coach Kyle Shanahan, whose offense is battling a rash of injuries to key pass-catchers, including All-Pro tight end George Kittle and slot receiver Jauan Jennings. Bourne, 30, began his NFL career as an undrafted free agent with San Francisco in 2017 and quickly established chemistry with quarterback Brock Purdy’s predecessor, Jimmy Garoppolo, before spending the past four seasons with the New England Patriots. Why the 49ers wanted Bourne back • Proven system fit: Bourne knows Shanahan’s playbook and can line up at all three receiver spots, allowing the coaching staff to keep Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk in favorable matchups. • Red-zone production: He scored 11 touchdowns in his first stint with the 49ers and posted a 71.4 percent catch rate inside the 20-yard line for New England. • Immediate availability: After recovering from a minor training-camp leg injury, Bourne passed his physical Monday morning and is expected to practice this week. Contract structure The deal reportedly carries a $2.5 million base salary with incentives tied to receptions, playing-time percentage, and postseason success that could double the payout. The 49ers preserved cap flexibility by deferring a portion of the bonuses to 2026, a strategy they’ve used with other veteran additions. Depth-chart ripple effects Bourne’s arrival likely bumps rookie Jacob Cowing to a reserve role and could push veteran Chris Conley to the practice squad once Samuel returns to full health. Fantasy football managers in need of a waiver-wire flier should monitor Bourne’s target share in Week 2 against the Los Angeles Rams, a defense that surrendered 278 passing yards in the opener. What’s next San Francisco must formally release or IR one player to make room on the 53-man roster; special-teams ace Malik Turner is considered the most vulnerable. Bourne is expected to speak to local media after Wednesday’s practice, and the team hopes to have him active for Sunday night’s nationally televised matchup at Levi’s Stadium. Key takeaways • Kendrick Bourne signs 1-year deal up to $5 million. • Provides experienced depth amid injuries to Kittle and Jennings. • Familiar with Kyle Shanahan’s scheme from 2017-2020 tenure. • Could see immediate snaps in Week 2 vs. Rams.