Something seems to call Kendrick Bourne back to the Bay Area. Is it the morning fog at Levi’s Stadium, or maybe the sea of red that greets every home game? Perhaps he simply feels like there’s more to accomplish.
After rebuilding his career with a one-year contract with the 49ers in 2025, Bourne has decided to enter free agency. He clearly expresses a desire to return to the 49ers.
“It’s been a great year,” Bourne shared on his YouTube channel recently. “When I hit free agency, it should be interesting. I want to go back to San Fran; that’s the plan, although it all needs to make sense.” In essence, he’s banking on himself but with a hope for long-term stability in red and gold.
“I’m trying to get back. I’ve been talking to Kyle (Shanahan)… I want this to work. San Francisco feels like home,” Bourne added during an appearance on Richard Sherman’s podcast.
Bourne’s straightforwardness is part of what makes him relatable. Just recently, he garnered some attention when he speculated whether an electrical substation near the team’s facility might explain why the practice field sometimes has brown patches.
“I’m going to research it,” he told NBC Sports. “I can’t help but wonder—there’s a stark contrast in the grass. Maybe they ought to consider anything that could help reduce injuries.” He humorously classified himself as a “conspiracy theorist,” balancing between jest and genuine curiosity, but ultimately, it’s clear that these musings don’t overshadow his loyalty to the team that gave him his start.
In 2025, Bourne had 37 receptions for 551 yards and no touchdowns, with a longest catch of 56 yards against Tampa Bay in October, averaging about 14.9 yards per catch.
As free agency approaches, he views it as an opportunity that’s exciting yet also a serious business. If all aligns, Bourne’s next chapter with San Francisco could turn out to be much more than just a quick appearance.
