49ers Linked to Bringing Back Recently Released Wide Receiver

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James Brizuela is a contributing sports and entertainment writer located in Los Angeles. His focus is on Comics, Comic Book Movies, Video Games, NFL, and MMA. He has in-depth knowledge of the NFL as a whole, having been a fan for over 30 years, and covering the sports over the last six years. He also knows the ins and outs of the comics world, becoming an editor while covering everything DC and beyond on Comic Book Resources, Giant Freakin Robot, and Inside the Magic. James joined Newsweek in March 2024, having previously written NFL content for Sports Illustrated. He is a graduate of the University of California, Riverside. You can get in touch with James by emailing, j.brizuela@newsweek.com. You can find him at X @james_brizuela. 

James Brizuela

Contributing Writer

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The San Francisco 49ers have a ton of work to do on the offensive side of the ball, and the team is already getting to work. The organization has signed former Kansas City Chiefs star Marquez Valdes-Scantling, and they might not be done yet.

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One target that would be obvious for the 49ers, and had already been linked to the team, is Kendrick Bourne. The former San Francisco wideout was just released by the New England Patriots, making it the perfect time for a reunion.

Bourne has been dealing with a foot injury, but has since healed from said injury. Instead of remaining with the Patriots, he has been seeking a new team, which has been granted.

The 49ers have a slew of players on the offensive side of the ball who are either injured or suspended. With so few passing options for Brock Purdy, San Francisco has likely put in multiple waiver claims, along with plans to sign released players.

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Bourne would be the perfect addition, as he played for the 49ers between the 2017 and 2020 seasons.

During his time with the 49ers, Bourne secured 1,769 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Following the 2020 season, Bourne signed a three-year deal with the Patriots, leaving behind the 49ers. Through eight seasons, he has yet to surpass 1,000 receiving yards, but he could experience a big role in a severely depleted offense.

Currently, the 49ers are set to use Ricky Pearsall and Skyy Moore as the primary receivers, with Valdes-Scantling likely to be the other option. Bourne could slot right in to help the team.

The 49ers will be without Brandon Aiyuk and Demarcus Robinson for the beginning of the season. Jauan Jennings is set to return in Week 1, but that is no guarantee.

With so many offensive players out, the 49ers might want to jump on a reunion with Bourne.

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