The San Francisco 49ers are reportedly adding veteran wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling on a one-year deal, but their work at the position may not be finished. According to NBC Sports Bay Area's Matt Maiocco, the 49ers have "high interest" in reuniting with wideout Kendrick Bourne, who is expected to be released by the New England Patriots.
The 49ers have "high interest" in bringing back WR Kendrick Bourne, source says, after he gets his release from the Patriots.
— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoNBCS) August 27, 2025
Bourne, 30, began his NFL career with San Francisco in 2017 as an undrafted free agent. Over four seasons with the 49ers, he carved out a role as a dependable target in Kyle Shanahan's offense before departing in 2021 to sign with New England.
His best season came in his first year with the Patriots, when he posted 55 receptions for 800 yards and five touchdowns. However, injuries and competition on the depth chart have limited his impact in recent years. He finished with 434 receiving yards in 2022, 406 in 2023, and 305 in 2024.
The teams other than the 49ers that are potential suitors for WR Kendrick Bourne are the Commanders and, perhaps, the Vikings, source said. Teams with execs who were with the 49ers when Bourne was with SF.
— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoNBCS) August 27, 2025
The 49ers certainly have concerns at the wide receiver position. Jauan Jennings remains at the center of contract drama and is also dealing with a calf injury. Brandon Aiyuk continues to work his way back from ACL and MCL injuries, while second-year wideout Jacob Cowing and rookie Jordan Watkins are battling their own health setbacks.
Additionally, the NFL suspended veteran Demarcus Robinson for the first three games of the season for violating the league's personal conduct policy.
Bourne (6-1, 205) has compiled 3,714 receiving yards and 22 touchdowns across his eight NFL seasons. A reunion with San Francisco could give the 49ers a much-needed reliable option as they look to stabilize a receiving corps filled with uncertainty.