The San Francisco 49ers made one of the biggest moves of their offseason Monday morning. San Francisco agreed to a three-year, $60.4 million deal with veteran wide receiver Mike Evans, giving quarterback Brock Purdy another proven target. Evans brings over a decade of production and instantly becomes the most experienced receiver on the roster.
Later in the day, the 49ers made another move at the position. This time they were saying goodbye to a receiver who played an important role for them last season.
Kendrick Bourne agreed to a two-year contract with the Arizona Cardinals. Yesterday, he addressed his departure on social media.
Bourne Sends Message to the 49ers
Bourne took to Instagram to thank the 49ers fan base that supported him throughout his time in San Francisco.
“Letter to the faithful!” Bourne wrote. “You guys will always hold a special place in my heart! I use these pics because it brings me back to the beginning! Just a young buck trying to make his dream come true! And you guys welcomed me with open arms! That’s why I brought the energy! Because of you guys!”
The message was personal. Bourne included throwback photos from early in his career. The images reminded him of where he started and how far he’s come.
“I’ve come along way!” Bourne continued. “But it wouldn’t have been possible without the beginnings! So some memory lane pics my mom sent me felt right in this farewell post! Thank you @49ers see yall soon 👀👀 😁😁 twice lol 😂”
The final line referenced the fact that Arizona and San Francisco play twice every season as NFC West division rivals. Bourne will face his former team in 2026.
Kittle Responds to Bourne’s Departure
The energy Bourne mentioned in his post showed up every week. His teammates noticed it.
George Kittle didn’t wait long to respond. The 49ers tight end posted his own message on Instagram shortly after Bourne’s farewell went live.
“No energy like you on the field! Good luck brother,” Kittle wrote.
Kittle and Bourne spent last season together in San Francisco. They developed a connection on and off the field. Even though Bourne is heading to a division rival, Kittle made sure to show respect for what his former teammate brought to the locker room.
The acknowledgment from Kittle carried weight. He’s been one of the leaders of the 49ers offense for years. His endorsement of Bourne’s energy wasn’t just a formality. It reflected what the entire team saw from Bourne throughout 2025.
Bourne’s Time With the 49ers
Bourne joined the 49ers last season and worked his way into the offense quickly and became one of the team’s most productive receivers after injuries hit.
He finished with the season with 37 receptions for 551 yards. That total ranked fourth on the team and second among wide receivers behind Jauan Jennings.
Several teams reportedly showed interest in Bourne during free agency. The Cardinals won out with a two-year deal, and get a veteran presence in the receiver room. Bourne proved last season he can still produce when given opportunities.
GettyKendrick Bourne joins the Arizona Cardinals.
Final Word for the 49ers
Kendrick Bourne’s farewell message to 49ers fans was heartfelt. He thanked the Faithful for welcoming him and supporting his journey. George Kittle responded to the move with respect for the energy Bourne brought every week.
The Cardinals get a veteran receiver who proved he can still contribute. The 49ers move forward with Mike Evans and continue reshaping their offense.
The next meeting between Bourne and his former teammates comes soon enough. Inside the NFC West.
49ers Wide Receiver Drops Major Statement After Leaving