Dolphins, 49ers and Cardinals Reportedly Interested in Free-Agent WR Kendrick Bourne

The three teams are rumored to be "in the mix" for the former 49ers wide receiver.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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According to CBS Sports' Matt Zenitz, the Miami Dolphins, San Francisco 49ers, and Arizona Cardinals are all reportedly interested in signing free-agent wide receiver Kendrick Bourne. Bourne had a solid 2022 season with the 49ers, catching 37 passes for 551 yards. The Dolphins and 49ers have the biggest need at wide receiver of the three teams, while Bourne has previously spoken highly of his relationship with new Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur.

Why it matters

The pursuit of Kendrick Bourne by these three teams highlights the importance of wide receiver depth in the NFL. With the Dolphins and 49ers both needing to fill significant holes at the position, Bourne could provide a reliable option. Meanwhile, the Cardinals' interest suggests they view Bourne as a potential complement to their young receiving corps.

The details

Bourne, 27, is coming off a 2022 season with the 49ers in which he caught 37 passes for 551 yards. He proved to be a valuable contributor, especially when San Francisco's receiving group was dealing with injuries. The Dolphins, who recently released star wideout Tyreek Hill, and the 49ers, who could lose Brandon Aiyuk and Jauan Jennings in free agency, are seen as the teams with the biggest need for Bourne's services. The Cardinals, led by new head coach Mike LaFleur, are also reportedly interested, with Bourne having previously spoken highly of his relationship with the coach.

  • Bourne is set to become an unrestricted free agent in the 2023 NFL offseason.

The players

Kendrick Bourne

A 27-year-old wide receiver who spent the last five seasons with the San Francisco 49ers, catching 37 passes for 551 yards in 2022.

Mike LaFleur

The new head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, who previously worked with Bourne when he was an assistant coach with the 49ers.

Tyreek Hill

The star wide receiver recently released by the Miami Dolphins, leaving them with a significant need at the position.

Brandon Aiyuk

A wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers who could potentially leave the team in free agency.

Jauan Jennings

A wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers who could potentially leave the team in free agency.

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What they’re saying

“The Cardinals, Dolphins and 49ers are among the teams in the mix with wide receiver Kendrick Bourne, sources tell CBS Sports.”

— Matt Zenitz, CBS Sports Reporter (CBS Sports)

What’s next

As Bourne enters free agency, the Dolphins, 49ers, and Cardinals will likely continue to evaluate their options and determine if he is the right fit for their respective teams and needs.

The takeaway

The pursuit of Kendrick Bourne by these three teams underscores the importance of having depth and talent at the wide receiver position in the NFL. With the Dolphins and 49ers in particular needing to fill significant holes, Bourne could provide a reliable and productive option for whichever team signs him.