Kendrick Bourne, the wide receiver who rejoined the San Francisco 49ers last season after four years with the New England Patriots, is hopeful about continuing his run with the team. Having signed a one-year deal for his return, Bourne is approaching free agency but remains focused on staying with the 49ers following a constructive meeting with head coach Kyle Shanahan.
Last season, Bourne was a key part of the 49ers’ receiver rotation, registering 37 receptions for 551 yards over 16 games, with eight starts. His previous contract was valued at approximately $1.765 million, but current projections suggest he could command a salary near $6 million annually if San Francisco opts to retain him.
Maintaining positive relations paved the way for comeback
Bourne credits his smooth return to the 49ers to leaving on good terms during his initial departure in 2020. Discussing the matter on the Richard Sherman Podcast, he emphasized the importance of preserving relationships, which helped facilitate his reunion with the organization.
“It just was right back to how it felt,” Bourne said. “So, I appreciate Kyle, John. And I love how I left on a good note. Left with a good relationship. That’s powerful. So any players out there, don’t leave and go on Twitter and die-down your last team. Never know when you might need to come back. So kind of left on that note and it was good for me.” – Kendrick Bourne, Wide Receiver
His willingness to maintain a strong connection with coach Shanahan and others has clearly left a positive impression.
Significance of Bourne’s potential return to the 49ers
As the 49ers prepare for upcoming roster changes, including the likely departure of receiver Brandon Aiyuk, bringing back Bourne could be a vital move to preserve depth in the wide receiver corps. Bourne’s reliability as a target for quarterback Brock Purdy has been demonstrated, which adds value to his return for the team’s offensive stability.
“I’m trying to come back,” Bourne said on the “Richard Sherman Podcast” on Wednesday. “Talked to Kyle. Got a good relationship with him. We had a good exit meeting. So I’m trying to make it happen. That’s always the goal.
“San Francisco is home. And so coming back, having a good year, like you said, was powerful. So I’m trying to run it back. Money talks, but that’s just definitely home. So that’s holding a special place in my heart.” – Kendrick Bourne, Wide Receiver
If negotiations progress positively, retaining Bourne will provide continuity for the 49ers’ receiving unit as they prepare for future seasons. His desire to stay puts the team in a favorable position to secure a proven contributor without starting from scratch at the position.
“I’m trying to come back” The San Francisco 49ers and Kendrick Bourne let’s Run it BACK!#Niners #KendrickBourne #NFLfreeAgency pic.twitter.com/OPTit2ep29
— Richard Sherman Podcast (@RShermanPodcast) February 19, 2026
