Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images

49ers' attempt to get a deal across the finish line failed and now they must wait to see if a NFC contender steals him away

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Destin Adams | Last updated Sep 2, 2025 4:40 PM ET

The uncertainty surrounding the San Francisco 49ers' WR room led them to look to a familiar face as a potential solution. The team brought Kendrick Bourne in for a visit, and many hoped the two sides would agree to a contract before he departed.

According to Matt Maiocco, the team tried to do just that by making a formal offer to Bourne. Sadly, they weren't able to get the deal across the finish line, and now the potential reunion is in danger of not happening after all.

The 49ers made a formal offer to sign free-agent WR Kendrick Bourne, source says. They did not reach an agreement, and now Bourne visits with the Washington Commanders today.
— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoNBCS) September 2, 2025

Kendrick Bourne leaves 49ers visit without a signed contract and is now meeting with the Commanders

Feb 2, 2020; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; San Francisco 49ers receiver Kendrick Bourne (84) runs after a reception against Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Charvarius Ward (35) in Super Bowl LIV at Hard Rock Stadium. Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Bourne elected to take his next scheduled visit instead of signing on the dotted line with the 49ers. On Tuesday, the WR began his visit with the 2024 NFC runners-up, the Washington Commanders. Losing Bourne would be a significant disappointment for the 49ers, but to see him go to another contender in the NFC would hurt even more.

Seeing him leave the visit makes you wonder if the 49ers offered him a practice squad deal, as opposed to a spot on their 53-man roster. If that's the case, the Commanders would be able to beat the 49ers' offer by simply bypassing the practice squad and signing him to their active roster. If he also leaves his visit in Washington without a deal, the 49ers should feel solid about their chances of this reunion still happening. With Week One of the NFL regular season around the corner, time is ticking for the 49ers to make a needed addition to their WR room to give QB Brock Purdy as many weapons as possible. Specifically, with Brandon Aiyuk continuing to work back from his injury, the Jauan Jennings contract disputes remain unsettled.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: