Wide receiver Kendrick Bourne rejoined the San Francisco 49ers on a one-year deal after being released by the New England Patriots last year. Following his solid 2025 season with the 49ers, Bourne expressed a strong desire to extend his time with the team beyond his current contract as he approaches free agency.
Performance and Ambitions for Staying with the Team
During the 2025 campaign, Bourne took part in 16 games and secured 37 receptions, accumulating a total of 551 yards. On his YouTube channel, he highlighted how well the season went and shared his hopes to continue with the 49ers rather than entering the free-agent market unrestricted.
Hitting free agency this year, it’s gonna be fun. I want to go back to San Fran, so that’s the plan, but it’s all got to make sense,
Bourne said.
Concerns About the Practice Facility and Its Impact
Earlier in the year, Bourne addressed concerns related to an electrical substation located near the 49ers’ practice facility. He noted the unusual browning of the grass near the site compared to greener fields elsewhere and described himself as a “conspiracy theorist” regarding the substation’s potential effects on the health of the players.
The substation was already present during Bourne’s first tenure with the franchise, yet this factor did not prevent him from returning in 2025. While the issue has been brought up by Bourne, it does not appear to heavily influence his decision-making about his future with the 49ers.
Looking Ahead to Contract Negotiations and Career Stability
As Kendrick Bourne approaches free agency, his main aim is to secure a longer-term contract that keeps him with the San Francisco 49ers. His performance and commitment to the team suggest that negotiations could focus on providing stability for both parties starting in 2026. Bourne’s reflections on the practice environment and his expressed enthusiasm for returning highlight the complex factors players consider beyond just on-field play.
