The San Francisco 49ers walked away with a solid win over the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, but not everything coming out of that game was about the scoreboard. One storyline that continues to develop quietly is the shrinking role of wide receiver Kendrick Bourne in the 49ers' passing game.
Bourne was targeted just once in the win, nearly pulling off a highlight-reel grab on the sideline on third down. It was a reminder of the kind of playmaking ability he still has in his bag. But it also underscored just how little he’s been involved since Brock Purdy returned under center.
Earlier this season, when Mac Jones stepped in for an injured Purdy, Bourne was a different kind of weapon. He posted back-to-back 142-yard games - an eye-popping stretch for a player who was essentially brought in off the street after being released by the Patriots.
That production wasn’t just a fluke. It spoke to the chemistry he and Jones built during their time together in New England, and it carried over to San Francisco in a way that felt organic.
Both players spoke about feeling more at ease in the Bay Area, and it showed in their on-field connection.
But since Purdy's return to the starting lineup in Week 11, Bourne's role has all but disappeared. He hasn’t recorded a catch and has only been targeted once. That’s a steep drop-off, especially considering how effective he was earlier in the year.
To be fair, Bourne’s targets were already trending downward before Purdy came back. That coincided with the return to health of key weapons like George Kittle and Jauan Jennings. As those players worked back into the mix, the 49ers’ offensive focus shifted, and Bourne found himself on the outside looking in.
Still, Bourne hasn’t let the reduced role dampen his spirit. He’s remained active on social media, keeping things light and even taking a playful jab at the Browns after Sunday’s win. That kind of energy - even when he’s not on the field - is part of what makes him a valuable presence in the locker room.
And let’s not forget: the NFL season is a grind. Injuries happen.
If someone like Jennings or rookie Ricky Pearsall misses time, Bourne could be right back in the mix. Having a veteran like him stashed on the depth chart is a luxury not every team can afford.
He knows the system, he’s proven he can produce when called upon, and he brings a contagious energy that matters over the course of a long season.
Even if Bourne doesn’t see much action down the stretch, his contributions earlier in the year - particularly during the stretch when injuries piled up - were crucial in keeping the 49ers afloat. He and Mac Jones helped stabilize the offense when things could’ve easily unraveled. That kind of impact doesn’t always show up on the stat sheet, but it’s the kind of thing coaches and teammates don’t forget.
So while Bourne’s role has changed, his value to this team hasn’t disappeared. If anything, he remains one of those quiet X-factors - a player who can step in without skipping a beat if the situation calls for it.