The San Francisco 49ers have openly stated their interest in adding a free-agent wide receiver to support quarterback Brock Purdy ahead of the 2025 National Football League season. The need for reinforcements comes as injuries challenge the team’s depth at the wide receiver position.
On Wednesday, following the release of Kendrick Bourne by the New England Patriots, reports linked both the Minnesota Vikings and the 49ers with interest in signing the veteran receiver. General Manager John Lynch confirmed that Bourne is under consideration by the team’s front office.
“No new news,” Lynch said. “Anytime a really good football player who we had ties to — Kendrick started his career here — becomes available, there’s obviously going to be discussions. We’re trying to evaluate the pertinent information. Kendrick has been hurt in training camp, so trying to see where he’s exactly at. Having conversations. We’ll let that play out, we’ll continue to look into it,” Lynch stated.
Bourne began his professional career with San Francisco in 2017, spending four years with the team before joining New England for another four seasons. Injuries currently affecting Brandon Aiyuk and Jauan Jennings have left their availability for Week 1 uncertain, increasing pressure on the team to add experienced receivers. Earlier this week, San Francisco also signed Marquez Valdes-Scantling as part of efforts to bolster its wide receiver group following Deebo Samuel’s move to Washington.
San Francisco aims to provide Brock Purdy with additional options as preparations continue for the upcoming season and seeks stability in a unit affected by recent injuries.
