Kendrick Bourne Injury News & Updates

Bourne was not targeted as a receiver in Sunday's 41-22 win over the Cardinals.

Bourne saw his target share evaporate completely after recording just one catch in the 49ers' last contest. The healthy return of Ricky Pearsall (knee) was the primary reason for the fill-in starter's demotion. Bourne was on the field for 13 snaps on offense (24 percent), finishing behind third-string wideout Demarcus Robinson (29 percent) in the pecking order for playing time. If any managers were still hanging on to Bourne following his brief run of fantasy utility earlier in the schedule, they can safely move off the veteran ahead of next Monday's tilt against Carolina.

Bourne caught his only target for 19 yards in Sunday's 42-26 loss to the Rams.

Bourne started and logged 43 snaps on offense (68 percent) Sunday, so a lack of playing time can't excuse the putrid fantasy line. The veteran wideout was simply outclassed by the Rams' defensive backs, failing to create separation in a game the 49ers were forced to throw the ball 39 times. After reviving his career with a pair of 142-yard games in Weeks 5 and 6, Bourne has fallen off as a fantasy option in the following weeks, averaging just 2.3 targets per game in those four contests. The 29-year-old's Week 11 value is limited to deeper formats, even in a favorable matchup against the Cardinals next Sunday.

Bourne caught both of his targets for 34 yards in Sunday's 34-24 win over the Giants.

Bourne's two targets tied for fourth on the team as Mac Jones didn't target any player more than six times. After back-to-back 142-yard receiving performances in Weeks 5 and 6, Bourne has just seven catches for 92 yards across three subsequent games. Even if San Francisco doesn't get any healthier at wide receiver in Week 10 against the Rams, Bourne may not see a significant target share.

Bourne brought in three of four targets for 44 yards in the 49ers' 26-15 loss to the Texans on Sunday.

Bourne was second in receiving yards on the 49ers despite his modest total, and he contributed a pair of first downs on his trio of grabs. Bourne continues to work as the No. 2 receiver due to the absence of Ricky Pearsall (knee), but after back-to-back 142-yard tallies versus the Rams and Buccaneers in Weeks 5 and 6, the Eastern Washington production has generated a modest 5-58-0 line on six targets over the subsequent pair of contests. Bourne will continue working in a starting role if Pearsall is unable to return for next Sunday's Week 9 matchup on the road against the Giants.

Bourne pulled in both of his targets for 14 yards in Sunday's 20-10 win over the Falcons.

Bourne failed to extend his unlikely streak of recording exactly 142 yards to three games in Sunday's win. The drop-off was drastic for the veteran wideout after finishing with a season-low two targets. It was a rare victory led by San Francisco's defense and rushing attack, resulting in poor receiving lines for every position player outside of RB Christian McCaffrey (7-72-0). Bourne's role could reduce further in Week 8 if Ricky Pearsall (knee) is able to return from injury. For now, consider Bourne at the bare minimum a deep-league option against the Texans next Sunday.

Bourne finished with five receptions on nine targets for 142 yards in Sunday's 30-19 loss to the Buccaneers.

Fresh off posting a career-best 142 receiving yards against the Rams in Week 5, Bourne likely made his managers double take at the box score after hitting that same mark in consecutive contests. The 29-year-old has shown great chemistry with old teammate Mac Jones, as the former Patriots continue to post video game numbers filling in for injured 49ers' starters in 2025. Bourne continued starting in place of Ricky Pearsall (knee) while Jauan Jennings (ribs) returned in a limited capacity but revealed that he was playing with five broken ribs after the contest. If Pearsall is forced to miss a third-consecutive game in Week 7, then Bourne's stock would remain elevated for next Sunday's tilt against the Falcons. Either way, managers should continue riding the receiver's hot streak until the wheels fall off.

Bourne brought in 10 of 11 targets for 142 yards in the 49ers' 26-23 overtime win over the Rams on Thursday night.

The veteran receiver set a new career high in receiving yards during the hard-fought win, one in which Bourne played the role of No. 1 receiver thanks to the absences of Jauan Jennings (ankle, ribs) and Ricky Pearsall (knee). Bourne's reception and receiving yardage totals were both team highs, and he tied tight end Jake Tonges for the lead in targets as well. Were all of San Francisco's receivers, including Brandon Aiyuk (PUP, knee), healthy, Bourne would be either the No. 4 or No. 5 receiver, but his performance Thursday corroborated what he can do with an elevated role. Bourne could well be one of the 49ers' top three wideout options again in a Week 6 road matchup against the Buccaneers on Sunday, Oct. 12.

Bourne was held to one reception on four targets for 17 yards in Sunday's 26-21 loss to the Jaguars.

Jauan Jennings returned to action from a minor injury as expected, pushing Bourne back into the No. 3 role he was serving prior to last week's spot-start. The 29-year-old Bourne did finish with more playing time (68 percent) than Demarcus Robinson (38 percent), who was returning from a three-game suspension himself. It appears that Bourne settled into the No. 3 role for San Francisco, but he could see his role elevated temporarily in Week 5 if Ricky Pearsall (knee) is unable to suit up against the Rams on Thursday Night Football.

Bourne had four receptions on six targets for 38 yards in Sunday's 16-15 win over Arizona.

Bourne got the spot-start in place of Jauan Jennings (ankle) on Sunday, finishing with season highs in targets, receptions and yardage. The 29-year-old Bourne saw his playing time increase from 49 percent as the third receiver last week to 73 percent as the starter. Jennings may end up missing just one game and suspended WR Demarcus Robinson will be active in Week 4, so the small role Bourne carved out in recent weeks may vanish in short order.

San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan said that Bourne is "probably" going to be a starting receiver for the team in Sunday's game against the Cardinals with Jauan Jennings (ankle) listed as questionable but set to be inactive for the Week 3 contest, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

Bourne began his second stint in the 49ers organization last week, when he joined San Francisco on a one-year deal after he was previously cut by the Patriots at the conclusion of the preseason. Despite having limited practice time with the 49ers leading up to the Week 2 win over the Saints, Bourne still played 35 of the team's 71 offensive snaps in the contest, finishing with a 3-32-0 receiving line on three targets. With Jennings out of the mix for Week 3, Bourne should be in store for an uptick in snaps and targets while likely settling in as the 49ers' No. 2 wideout behind Ricky Pearsall.

Bourne caught all three of his targets for 32 yards in Sunday's 26-21 win over the Saints.

Seeing his first action as a 49er since 2020 after four seasons with the Patriots, Bourne wound up catching passes from a familiar face in former New England quarterback Mac Jones, who was filling in for Brock Purdy (toe/shoulder). Bourne's longest gain went for 13 yards, and as expected he operated as the clear No. 3 wide receiver behind Jauan Jennings and Ricky Pearsall. Bourne could get competition for that role as soon as Week 4, when Demarcus Robinson returns from a suspension, but that still gives him at least one more game in which to make an impact in Week 3 against the Cardinals.

Bourne has agreed to terms Monday on a one-year contract worth up to $5 million with San Francisco, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Bourne didn't ink with a team immediately after visiting with the 49ers and Commanders last week, but he now commits to what always seemed to be the most sensible landing spot, given San Francisco's current absences in the wide receiver corps. Jauan Jennings (shoulder) exited early Week 1 and is slated for an MRI, while Demarcus Robinson (suspension) won't return until Week 5 and Brandon Aiyuk (ACL) appears to be targeting a Week 6 debut. That positions Bourne to potentially contribute immediately in a depth role for his new team Week 2 against the Saints.

Bourne won't sign with a team for Week 1, despite visiting with the Commanders and 49ers this week, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Released by New England last week, Bourne is hoping to catch on with a team that has injury issues at wide receiver and needs a veteran who can learn the playbook in a hurry. The 49ers make the most sense, seeing as he already played there under Kyle Shanahan, although San Francisco's WR situation looks less desperate now that Jauan Jennings (calf/contract) is practicing.

Bourne (undisclosed) worked out for the 49ers on Monday, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

Bourne missed some time during training camp after he was "rolled up" in an early-August practice with New England. The Patriots then released the veteran wideout last week. Now healthy enough to work out for teams, Bourne had a tryout with San Francisco on Monday and is visiting the Commanders on Tuesday. The 49ers did offer Bourne a contract, but the two sides didn't come to an agreement before he left the facility to head to Washington.

Bourne (undisclosed) is slated to visit the 49ers on Monday and the Commanders on Tuesday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

After making the initial 53-man roster, Bourne asked the Patriots for his release, a move that occurred Wednesday. Per Mike Reiss of ESPN, the veteran wideout -- who hasn't practiced since Aug. 1 after being rolled up on during intrasquad scrimmage -- is close to returning to the field, and now it looks like he could soon reach a deal that would bolster either San Francisco or Washington's pass-catching corps.

New England released Bourne (foot) on Wednesday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Bourne was one of eight wide receivers to make the Patriots' initial 53-man roster Tuesday, but Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that he then requested to be released. Now healthy after having missed most of August with a foot injury, Bourne figures to seek an opportunity elsewhere in the league where he has a clearer path to getting on the field as a depth contributor. The 30-year-old veteran could be a fit for San Francisco, where he played the first four years of his NFL career and could help bolster the team's banged-up receiver corps.

Bourne (lower leg) is on New England's initial 53-man roster Tuesday.

Bourne has been sidelined since Aug. 1 due to an apparent lower- leg injury suffered in practice, and while the veteran wideout seemed a likely cut candidate for the Patriots, it appears he's secured a depth role to begin the 2025 campaign. That said, New England's initial 53-man roster includes a hefty eight wide receivers, so further moves wouldn't be surprising.

Coach Mike Vrabel said Monday that Bourne (leg) will not practice this week and has been ruled out for Thursday's preseason finale against the Giants, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Bourne was rolled up in practice back on Aug. 1 and has been sidelined ever since, essentially missing most of training camp and the entire preseason. With the Patriots' additions to the wide receiver room over the offseason, Bourne's roster spot isn't guaranteed. Missing the summer certainly won't help his chances.

Bourne (lower leg) did not play in the Patriots' 20-12 preseason win over the Vikings on Saturday.

Bourne has missed the Patriots' first two preseason games due to a lower leg injury that he suffered in early August. The veteran wideout is battling for a depth spot on New England's 53-man roster, but those chances will continue to diminish for as long as he remains sidelined. Bourne will aim to return to practice this next week and be available for the Patriots' preseason finale against the Giants on Thursday.

Bourne (lower leg) is not participating in warmups and will not play in Friday's preseason opener against the Commanders, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.

Bourne suffered a lower leg injury during last Friday's intrasquad scrimmage and hasn't practiced since. He'll look to get himself back on the practice field and be available for the Patriots' second exhibition game against the Vikings on Saturday, Aug. 16. The absences of Bourne and Stefon Diggs (knee) gives the likes of Ja'Lynn Polk, Javon Baker and Efton Chism more opportunities to get snaps with the offense during Friday's contest.

Bourne (lower leg) won't practice in the week leading up to Friday's preseason opener against Washington, coach Mike Vrabel said Monday, Taylor Kyles of Patriots on CLNS reports.

Bourne had his leg rolled up on in practice this past Friday and will miss at least a week of practice as a result. The veteran wide receiver will likely be held out of Friday's preseason game due to the injury, though official confirmation on that front won't come until later in the week.

Bourne limped off the field during Friday's intrasquad scrimmage before heading to the locker room, Mark Daniels of MassLive.com reports.

Bourne went to the sideline after making a catch, and on the bench he had his left cleat off while Patriots staffers tended to him. The nature of the injury isn't known, but the eight-year pro could begin to fall behind in the battle for one of the few depth WR spots on the roster if he's required to miss a stretch of time due to the injury.

As the coming season approaches, Bourne is in line to compete for a spot in the Patriots' revamped wide receiver corps, Evan Lazar of the team's official site reports.

When healthy, Stefon Diggs (knee) profiles as the team's top wideout, with Lazar suggesting that DeMario Douglas and 2025 third-rounder Kyle Williams are also roster locks, while Mack Hollins seems likely to secure a role as well. With that in mind, Bourne -- who carries a $7.7 million cap hit this season -- figures to compete for depth chart slotting with Kayshon Boutte, Ja'Lynn Polk, Javon Baker and Efton Chism. Working in Bourne's favor is his experience working with offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, who was on hand when the 29-year-old logged a career-high 925 yards from scrimmage, but for now Bourne doesn't have a path to steady targets in a crowded WR room.

Bourne finished the 2024 regular season with 28 catches (on 38 targets) for 305 yards and a TD in 12 games.

Bourne, who suffered a torn right ACL in Week 8 of the 2023 season, began the 2024 campaign on the PUP list before being activated ahead of Week 5 action. Not surprisingly, the veteran wideout was eased back into the mix, but even when he started to see an uptick in playing time, his fantasy impact was modest most weeks. Looking ahead, Bourne is under contract with New England through 2026, but as Phil Perry of NBC Sports Boston notes, it's possible that the rebuilding Patriots could consider moving on from the 29-year-old pass catcher this offseason.

Bourne caught two of his four targets for 22 yards in Saturday's 40-7 loss to the Chargers.

Bourne, who was on the field for 38 of the Patriots' 53 snaps on offense Saturday, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, has caught two passes (for a total of 40 yards) in each of his last two contests. With that in mind, the veteran wideout brings modest fantasy upside into this Sunday's home game against the Bills, who are locked into the AFC's No. 2 playoff seed.

Bourne caught both of his targets for 18 yards in Sunday's 24-21 loss to the Bills.

Bourne -- who had caught three passes in each of his previous three outings -- was on the field for 51 of the Patriots' 73 snaps on offense Sunday, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com. As the team's final two games approach, Bourne carries modest fantasy upside in PPR formats.

Bourne logged 27 of a possible 51 snaps on offense in Sunday's 30-17 loss to the Cardinals, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Bourne finished the contest with three catches (including a 37-yarder) for a team-high 44 yards. Since recording a 5/70/1 receiving line in Week 11, Bourne has caught three catches in each of New England's subsequent three games, a rate of production that limits his fantasy utility to deeper PPR formats.

Bourne caught all three of his targets for 39 yards and carried once for six yards in Sunday's 25-24 loss to the Colts.

Bourne, who was on the field for 46 of the Patriots' 72 snaps on offense in the contest, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, also had a six-yard TD called back due to a penalty. The veteran wideout should maintain a steady workload following the Patriots' Week 14 bye, however his fantasy utility is limited to deeper formats while operating in a passing offense has leaned heavily on its tight ends of late.

Bourne caught three of his five targets for 30 yards in Sunday's 34-15 loss to the Dolphins.

Bourne, who was on the field for 41 of a possible 69 snaps on offense in the contest, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, has been targeted five times in each of his last two outings. Now that he's moved further past the knee injury that resulted in him starting the season on the PUP list, Bourne has a chance to continue to produce enough (while working alongside fellow WRs DeMario Douglas and Kayshon Boutte) to merit lineup consideration in deeper fantasy formats.

Bourne caught all five of his targets for 70 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 28-22 loss to the Rams.

Bourne had been quiet since returning from a knee injury that cost him the first four weeks of the season, but he bounced back nicely after going without a catch in two of his previous three games. He set a season high in receiving yards and scored his first touchdown of the season on a 10-yard reception in the first quarter. Given the lack of production from New England's wideouts this season, Bourne could have a tough time building on this breakout effort in Week 12 against a tough Dolphins secondary.

When asked Friday, coach Jerod Mayo said Bourne will play Sunday against the Rams, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Bourne was active last Sunday against the Bears but didn't play a single offensive snap after he posted a 4-41-0 receiving line the previous week versus Tennessee. Mayo said Bourne had a "good week of practice" this week, Mark Daniels of MassLive.com reports. Kayshon Boutte ran a position-high 29 routes versus Chicago last week, followed by DeMario Douglas (18), K.J. Osborn (16) and Ja'Lynn Polk (10). Osborn has been on and off the inactive list most of the season, so perhaps Bourne takes his spot once again.

Though Bourne was active for Sunday's 19-3 win over the Bears, he didn't log any snaps in the contest, Doug Kyed of the Boston Herald reports.

After recording four catches (on six targets) for 41 yards in the Patriots' overtime loss to the Titans in Week 9, Bourne was the odd man out among the team's wideouts Sunday. While he figures to re-enter the mix in the coming weeks, Bourne's off the fantasy radar until or unless he reclaims a key role in a New England WR corps that also includes DeMario Douglas, Kayshon Boutte, Ja'Lynn Polk, K.J. Osborn and Javon Baker.

Bourne recorded four receptions on six targets for 41 yards in Sunday's 20-17 overtime loss to the Titans.

Bourne has slowly seen his snap count tick up since returning from a knee injury in Week 5, though his involvement in the offense took its first true leap Sunday. He recorded season-best marks in targets, receptions and yards, while also matching his longest gain of the season with a 14-yard catch late in the second quarter. Bourne missed out on an even bigger day when a 22-yard catch was wiped out by a holding call, but his performances are trending in the right direction.

Bourne logged 52 of a possible 67 snaps on offense in Sunday's 25-22 win over the Jets, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Though Bourne's snap count was his highest since being activated from the PUP list in advance of Week 5 action, he didn't catch any of his three targets Sunday. Regardless of who starts at QB for the Patriots in Week 9 against the Titans, Bourne isn't a high-percentage fantasy option after having combined for a 4/29/0 receiving line (on eight targets) through his first four outings this season.

Bourne was on the field for 37 of a possible 60 snaps on offense in Sunday's 32-16 loss to the Jaguars, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

In his third game since being activated from the PUP list in advance of Week 5 action, Bourne caught one of his two targets for 14 yards. It's possible that as the wideout further distances himself from the knee injury that previously sidelined him, Bourne could see his volume increase as the season progresses, but until that happens, he's off the fantasy radar.

Bourne caught both of his targets for nine yards in Sunday's 41-21 loss to the Texans.

Per Doug Kyed of the Boston Herald, Bourne -- who was activated from the PUP list ahead of Week 5 action -- said last week that it would take a couple of weeks for him to get back to 100 percent as he bounces back from a knee injury, with the wideout's snap count increasing from 16 snaps in his first game back to 34 snaps Sunday. With that in mind, it wouldn't surprise us to see Bourne's playing time continue to rise in Week 7 against the Jaguars, but for the time being he's a risky fantasy lineup option.

Bourne (knee) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Texans.

After being activated from the PUP list ahead of Week 5 action, Bourne made his season debut in the Patriots' loss to the Dolphins last weekend, en route to logging 16 of 60 snaps on offense while catching his lone target for six yards. In his second game back from a major knee injury that he suffered Oct. 29, 2023, Bourne could see an uptick in playing time in QB Drake Maye's first NFL regular-season start. However, until the veteran wideout re-establishes a steady role in New England's offense, he'll continue to profile as a speculative fantasy option.

Bourne (knee), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Texans, is expected to play, Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald reports.

Bourne played just 27 percent of the team's snaps in his 2024 debut after missing the first four games following the 2023 October ACL tear. Expect the veteran wide receiver to be more involved in the gameplan this week as the Patriots debut the 2024 No. 3 overall pick, Drake Maye, in his first professional start.

Bourne (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Texans after practicing in a limited fashion this week.

Given that Bourne was on the reserve/PUP list through Week 4 as he bounced back from a knee injury he sustained Oct. 29, 2023, it's not surprising that the Patriots are easing the wideout back into the mix. We'd expect Bourne to be available to face Houston on Sunday, with confirmation of his status set to arrive once New England's inactives are known ahead of the team's 1:00 ET kickoff. After logging a 27 percent snap share in his season debut versus Miami in Week 5, Bourne could see an uptick in playing time in QB Drake Maye's first NFL regular-season start, but until the veteran pass-catcher gets a full and productive game in, he's a speculative fantasy option.

Bourne (knee) remainedlimited at practice Thursday.

Bourne was also limited Wednesday, but chances are his limitations are maintenance-related, rather than indicative of any setbacks with the knee injury that kept him on the PUP list through Week 4. Friday's injury report will reveal whether the wideout approaches Sunday's game against the Texans with an injury designation or fully cleared for Week 6 action.

Bourne (knee) was limited at practice Wednesday.

In his first game back after being activated from the PUP list Saturday, Bourne logged 16 of a possible 60 snaps on offense in the Patriots' Week 5 loss to the Dolphins. With no reported setbacks in the contest, Bourne's Wednesday limitations are likely maintenance-related. Assuming that's the case, the wideout should be available for rookie QB Drake Maye's first start, Sunday against the Texans.

Bourne brought in his only target for six yards in the Patriots' 15-10 loss to the Dolphins on Sunday.

The veteran wideout made his return to the field following his late-October 2023 ACL tear, but he had a minimal role overall in his taste of game action. Given the Patriots' dearth of reliable pass-catching options, Bourne, who already had a 37-406-4 line in eight regular-season games before suffering his injury last season, should quickly see his role in the air attack expand as he develops chemistry with both Jacoby Brissett and Drake Maye.

Bourne (knee) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.

Bourne -- who came off the PUP list Saturday -- is thus set to make his first game appearance since tearing his right ACL on Oct. 29, 2023. In his return to the lineup, it's possible that Bourne will be eased back into the mix, but either way, his presence should provide a needed boost to a New England offense that ranks 31st in the league in scoring (13.0 points per game), per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com. With K.J. Osborn (shoulder) inactive versus Miami, Bourne has an immediate opportunity to step into a key role alongside fellow WRs Ja'Lynn Polk and DeMario Douglas, though for now he profiles as a speculative fantasy option until he gets a full and productive outing in.

Bourne (knee) who was activated off the reserve/PUP list Saturday, is listed as questionable for Sunday's game but is expected to play, Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald reports.

Bourne was expected to make his season debut Sunday after practicing in limited fashion all week. He'll join a beleaguered Patriots passing attack that has yet to surpass 170 passing yards in any of the four contests this campaign. The veteran receiver quietly had developed into a featured pass catcher last season in a similarly dire passing offense recording at least two catches in all eight games before going down with a season-ending ACL tear, but it's hard to imagine Bourne significantly turning around a New England offense that ranks dead last in total passing yards in 2024.

Bourne (knee), who remains on the reserve/PUP list, is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Dolphins.

Since the Patriots opened his 21-day window to return from the reserve/PUP list Wednesday, Bourne has been limited in practice as he continues his recovery from the right ACL tear that he sustained Week 8 of last season. Coach Jerod Mayo told Mark Daniels of MassLive.com on Friday that Bourne has displayed "that he's healthy" this week, but the Patriots also are determining whether the wide receiver will take one of the three open spots on their active roster, according to Daniels. The team will need to make such a decision by 4:00 p.m. ET on Saturday ahead of Sunday's contest, so clarity on that front will become known in due time.

Bourne noted Thursday that he "feels good" and that his knee has responded well to his return to practice, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.

Per Lazar, Bourne, who was limited in his return to practice Wednesday, is on a snap count for the time being. The wideout remains on the PUP list, and it's unclear at this stage if he'll be activated ahead of Sunday's contest against the Dolphins. Once Bourne returns to the mix, however, he'll have a chance to reclaim a key role in a New England WR corps currently led by DeMario Douglas, Ja'Lynn Polk and K.J. Osborn (shoulder).

Bourne (knee) is slated to practice Wednesday, Mike Reiss of ESPN reports.

Bourne, who remains on the PUP list, will thus have his 21-day practice window opened up ahead of Week 5 action. In terms of the wideout's availability for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, coach Jerod Mayo indicated that the possibility of Bourne (who is bouncing back from an ACL tear he sustained last October) playing this weekend isn't unrealistic, Mark Daniels of MassLive.com reports.

Bourne (knee) is expected to have his practice window opened this coming week, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Bourne, who is on the PUP list, continues to progress in his recovery from an ACL tear he sustained last October. Assuming he does return to practice this coming week, it remains to be seen how long it will be before he's ready for game action, but barring any setbacks, Bourne will eventually have an opportunity to reclaim a key role in a New England wideout corps currently led by DeMario Douglas, K.J. Osborn and Ja'Lynn Polk.

Bourne -- who is bouncing back from a torn right ACL that he sustained last October -- continues to progress toward a potential return to action, Khari Thompson of the Boston Globe reports.

With that in mind, coach Jerod Mayo noted Monday of Bourne, "yeah, he's making great progress. He's running fast. He looks good in his routes. When he's ready to be out there, he'll be out there." In any case, Bourne, who is on the reserve/PUP list, will miss at least one more contest, but it's possible that he could return to practice after the Patriots' Sept. 29 contest against the 49ers. Once he's back up to speed, the 29-year-old should reclaim a key role in the team's corps, which is currently led by DeMario Douglas, K.J. Osborn and Ja'Lynn Polk.

Bourne (knee) is starting the regular season on the PUP list, making him ineligible to play until at least Week 5, Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald reports.

Bourne meets the same fate as most of the other players that suffered ACL tears last season, unable to make good on his winter optimism that he'd be ready for training camp and Week 1. He tore his ACL in Week 8 last year, finishing with a 37-406-4 line on 55 targets and a career-high 50.8 receiving yards per game. There's no guarantee Bourne gets that kind of opportunity once he's ready to play this season, as the Patriots have young wide receivers Ja'Lynn Polk, DeMario Douglas and Javon Baker vying for targets with veterans K.J. Osborn and Tyquan Thornton. It's far from a formidable WR room, but there's at least more depth than the team had last season after Bourne went down for the year. Bourne has been on the PUP list all summer, unable to practice with his teammates. His 2024 debut will come no earlier than Week 6 against Miami.

Bourne (knee) remains on the active/PUP list ahead of the Patriots' Aug. 25 preseason finale, Jacob Rousseau and Bill Kochof the Providence Journal report.

It remains to be seen when Bourne -- who is bouncing back from a torn right ACL that he suffered last October -- will be able to resume practicing, but as Week 1 approaches, it becomes increasingly plausible that the veteran wideout could start the coming campaign on the PUP list. With the Patriots guided by a new coaching staff and transitioning at the quarterback and wide receiver positions, we suspect that the team will err on the side of caution with Bourne out of the gate this season. If he does end up out or limited early on, added opportunities would be available for some combination of DeMario Douglas, Ja'Lynn Polk, K.J. Osborn, Javon Baker, Tyquan Thornton, Kayshon Boutteand Jalen Reagor.

Bourne (knee) will open training camp on the active/PUP list, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Bourne is bouncing back from a torn right ACL that he suffered last October, so it's not especially surprising that he isn't quite ready to practice as training camp opens. Previous report relayed that Bourne anticipated being ready for Week 1 action, but while he's unavailable, DeMario Douglas, Ja'Lynn Polk, K.J. Osborn, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Javon Baker, Jalen Reagor and Tyquan Thornton are slated to compete for slotting in the Patriots' re-tooled WR corps.

Coach Jerod Mayo said Monday that Bourne (knee) will not participate in OTAs, Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald reports.

Bourne is working his way back from a right ACL tear that forced him to miss the final nine games of the 2023 campaign, and while he said back in March that he expects to be a "full go" for training camp, it looks like spring activities would be too early a benchmark. That will cost Bourne an early chance to build chemistry with new quarterbacks Jacoby Brissett and Drake Maye, but as long as he's indeed able to get on the practice field for training camp, there shouldn't be real concerns about his availability for Week 1. Bourne re-signed with the Patriots this offseason on a three-year, $33 million contract this offseason, though it only contains $5.5 million guaranteed at signing with a $19.5 million base value.

The Patriots have minimal commitment to Bourne (knee) beyond 2024 despite re-signing him to a three-year contract worth up to $33 million, Ben Volin of The Boston Globe reports.

The deal is loaded with incentives and light on guarantees, with a base value of $19.5 million and only $5.5 million guaranteed at signing. Another $2.5 million becomes guaranteed for 2025 if Bourne reaches 800 yards in 2024, though the Patriots presumably would want to keep him around in that case anyway. The 28-year-old had a career-high 800 receiving yards in 2021, his first season with the Patriots, and he was on pace for 863 yards and eight TDs last season until an ACL tear cost him the final nine games. Bourne said in February that his rehab was ahead of schedule, and in early March he added that he expects to be a "full go" for training camp and Week 1. It's not yet clear who he'll be catching passes from or competing for targets with, apart from the likelihood of second-year WR Demario Douglas and veteran TE Hunter Henry getting significant playing time.

Bourne (knee) and the Patriots agreed to terms on a three-year deal worth up to $33 million on Sunday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Before suffering a season-ending torn ACL in Week 8 last season, Bourne was easily the Patriots' best receiver. It wasn't a high bar to clear, but it made too much sense to bring Bourne back after he put up a 37-406-4 receiving line on 55 targets across eight appearances. He was on pace for a career year and will head into his age-29 season later this fall. Bourne has already stated he expects to be ready for training camp. Look for the Patriots to further address their wideout depth chart in free agency and the draft.

Bourne (knee) expects to be able to do some work in the spring and will be a full go for training camp, Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reports.

Bourne is rehabbing from a torn ACL that he suffered in Week 8 of the 2023 season. He was on pace to shatter his personal bests in nearly every statistical category before his campaign was cut short. Bourne is set to become a free agent in the league year, and he has stated that he would like to rejoin the Patriots and reportedly has an offer from the team.

The Patriots have offered Bourne (knee) a new contract, Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald reports.

The Patriots hope to re-sign him before March 11 when the impending free agent can begin negotiating with other teams. Bourne suffered an ACL tear in Week 8 of 2023, ending what was on track to be a career year with personal bests of 4.6 catches and 50.8 receiving yards per game. He said at the Super Bowl that he's ahead of schedule in his rehab and would like to re-sign with New England, though he also said part of his motivation for attending the big game in Las Vegas was to "get [his] name out there" for potential suitors in free agency. Bourne mostly served as a No. 3 receiver before 2023 in San Francisco and then New England, and that might be how a lot of teams view him as he rehabs from the severe knee injury in preparation for his age-29 season in 2024.

Bourne (knee) recently said he's ahead of schedule in his rehab from an ACL tear and would like to re-sign with the Patriots this offseason, ESPN's Mike Reiss reports.

The 28-year-old suffered an ACL tear Week 8 of his contract year, bringing an early end to a season in which he was averaging career bests of 4.6 catches and 50.8 receiving yards per game. Bourne is now scheduled for unrestricted free agency, and while he hopes to stay in New England under a new coaching staff, he acknowledged that he's not actually sure what the future will hold. He has a physical therapist living with him as part of his rehab process after Nov. 15 surgery, hoping to strengthen the quad and leg around his injured knee. Ben Volin of The Boston Globe reports that Bourne is in Las Vegas for the Super Bowl, with the wideout noting Tuesday that his rehab is going well and he hopes to "get [his] name out there" for potential suitors in free agency.

Bourne (knee) underwent surgery to repair his right ACL on Wednesday and is expected to be ready for the start of training camp in the coming offseason, Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald reports.

Bourne, who landed on IR in late October, is done for the 2023 campaign due to a right ACL tear. He tallied a 37-406-4 receiving line on 55 targets across the first eight games of the year, while operating as the Patriots' most productive wideout. The 28-year-old is on track to become an unrestricted free agent in the offseason, but New England could have incentive to re-sign him, assuming his recovery progresses on track.

The Patriots placed Bourne (knee) on injured reserve Tuesday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.

The transaction is merely a formality after Bourne was confirmed to have suffered a season-ending ACL tear in Sunday's loss to the Dolphins. The 28-year-old had been New England's most productive wideout through the first eight games of the season, accruing a 37-406-4 receiving line on 55 targets. Bourne is scheduled for unrestricted free agency this offseason.

Bourne (knee) suffered a torn right ACL during Sunday's loss to the Dolphins, Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reports.

Bourne was initially hoped to have escaped with an MCL issue, but his MRI results returned showing a season-ending injury. The veteran wideout was in the midst of a promising 2023 campaign, having logged back-to-back games with a touchdown prior to his exit Sunday, making his injury a brutal loss for New England's already-thin wide receiver corps. DeVante Parker (head) was also forced out of Sunday's loss, meaning Mac Jones may have to work with Demario Douglas, JuJu Smith-Schuster and Jalen Reagor as his top WR trio Week 9 versus the Commanders.

Bourne is slated to undergo an on MRI on his right knee Monday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Per Rapoport, based on the initial diagnosis, the hope is that Bourne is dealing with an MCL injury. If New England's leading receiver is forced to miss time, the team's wideout corps could be shorthanded in Week 9, with DeVante Parker also having left Sunday's game against the Dolphins with a head injury. If both players are out next weekend against the Commanders, Tyquan Thornton and/or Kayshon Boutte would be candidates to suit up after having been inactive versus Miami.

Bourne was forced out of Sunday's game against the Dolphins with a right knee injury.

Per Zack Cox of NESN.com, Bourne was shaken up after an awkward tackle along the sideline. With both Bourne and DeVante Parker (head) having been ruled out for the remainder of Sunday's contest, Demario Douglas, JuJu Smith-Schuster and Jalen Reagor are the Patriots' remaining wide receiver options in Week 8. Before his exit, Bourne caught three of his four targets for 36 yards and a TD.

Bourne caught six of seven targets for 63 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 29-25 win over the Bills, and he also lost a fumble.

Bourne's four-yard touchdown catch in the fourth quarter was his first trip to the end zone since a two-touchdown performance against the Eagles in the season opener. That play put the Patriots up 22-10 with 7:36 remaining, but after Buffalo responded with a touchdown, Bourne made a critical error on New England's next possession, as he lost a fumble to set the Bills up in Patriots territory. Buffalo capitalized on the miscue and scored the go-ahead touchdown, but Bourne's teammates bailed him out by responding with a game-winning touchdown drive. Bourne didn't contribute on the final drive but still finished with team-high totals in targets and receiving yards, affirming his spot as the Patriots' top receiver heading into a Week 8 trip to Miami.

Bourne caught 10 of 11 targets for 89 yards in Sunday's 21-17 loss to the Raiders.

He also gained four rushing yards on his only carry. Bourne not only led the Patriots in receptions and yards, no other New England wideout hauled in more than one pass or saw more than three targets. The veteran receiver set new season highs in catches and receiving yards as well, and Bourne has been the one semi-consistent option in the team's offense so far, posting a 28-307-2 line on 44 targets through six contests.

Bourne brought in two of five targets for 43 yards in the Patriots' 34-0 loss to the Saints on Sunday.

Bourne's modest receiving yardage total led the Patriots on a completely forgettable day for New England's offense, and he also paced the team in targets. The veteran's fantasy outlook remains dim due to its symbiotic relationship with the team's dismal quarterback situation, but Bourne will have a solid matchup on a paper in a Week 6 road matchup versus the Raiders.

Bourne recorded two receptions on three targets for 36 yards in Sunday's 38-3 loss to the Cowboys.

Bourne was among a group of five pass catchers with three targets for New England. Opportunity was evenly spread in part because the Patriots were losing in blowout fashion, though Bourne has progressively seen his involvement in the offense decrease. Since his two-touchdown performance in Week 1, Bourne has failed to top 50 receiving yards in his next three games.

Bourne caught four of five targets for 46 yards in Sunday's 15-10 win over the Jets.

Bourne tied tight end Hunter Henry for the team lead in targets, and the 28-year-old wide receiver leads New England with 25 targets through three weeks -- seven ahead of second-place Henry. Bourne also leads the team with 14 catches and 139 receiving yards heading into a Week 4 trip to Dallas.

Bourne had four catches on nine targets for 29 yards in Sunday's 24-17 loss to Miami.

Bourne wound up leading the team in targets, but finished fourth in terms of receiving yardage. The veteran wideout made a valiant effort on one of one of Mac Jones' few deep pass attempts Sunday, but the ball pulled was just a bit outside and pulled him out of bounds. The end result was a disappointing follow-up to last week's two-touchdown showing from the Patriots' third receiver. Fantasy managers should expect results somewhere in between his first two games when the Patriots take on the Jets next Sunday.

Bourne recorded six receptions on 11 targets for 64 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 25-20 loss to the Eagles.

Bourne had his path to a significant offensive role cleared with both Tyquan Thornton (shoulder) and DeVante Parker (knee) sidelined for the contest. He commanded 11 targets to lead the team and also hauled in a pair of touchdown receptions from 19 and 11 yards away, respectively. Bourne will face more competition for opportunity at some point this season, but in the short term, he could remain the favorite target of Mac Jones.

With Tyquan Thornton (shoulder) having been placed on IR, Bourne approaches the coming season in a Patriots wideout corps that also features JuJu Smith-Schuster, DeVante Parker and rookies Demario Douglas and Kayshon Boutte.

In that context, Bourne has a chance to claim a key role in New England's passing offense out of the gate, though his target volume could fluctuate as long as his fellow key pass catchers (a group that also includes TEs Hunter Henry and Mike Gesicki) remain healthy. Still, after catching 35 passes in 16 games last season, Bourne (who recorded 55 catches in 2021) has an opportunity to see an uptick in production in 2023, and if that happens he could re-emerge as a factor in deeper PPR formats.

Bourne caught three of his four targets for 34 yards during Saturday's preseason contest against the Packers.

Per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, coach Bill Belichick noted of Bourne on Monday that the wideout "had a good spring. That spring led into having a good training camp. He's done very well in all phases -- played multiple spots, caught the ball well, blocked well." As the coming season approaches, Bourne has a chance to claim a key role in a New England WR corps that also features JuJu Smith-Schuster, DeVante Parker and Tyquan Thornton, who missed Saturday's game with an undisclosed injury. From a fantasy perspective though, Bourne's target volume could fluctuate as long as his fellow key pass catchers remain healthy, while working in an offense that could lean heavily on RBs Rhamondre Stevenson and Ezekiel Elliott.

Bourne has "stacked a couple days of strong practices this week," according to Mike Dussault of the Patriots' official site reports.

Dussault notes that Bourne, who turned in strong practices Sunday and Monday, "appears to be finding a stride within the (team's) Bill O'Brien offense." As the coming season approaches, the 28-year-old Bourne -- who logged a 35/434/1 receiving line in 16 games last year -- appears poised to claim a steady role in a Patriots WR corp that also includes newcomer JuJu Smith-Schuster, as well as returnees DeVante Parker and Tyquan Thornton. However, in an offense that could lean heavily on RBs Rhamondre Stevenson and Ezekiel Elliott, consistent targets may not be the norm for Bourne, as long as his fellow key pass-catchers remain healthy.

Bourne stood out during Thursday's practice as among the Patriots' most active wideouts, Phil Perry of NBCsportsboston.com reports.

Perry notes that the effort -- which featured Bourne catching three of his four targets, including a toe-tapping grab along the sideline -- followed a relatively quiet start at training camp for the wideout over the first week of practice. As the coming season approaches, Bourne will look to earn a consistent role in a Patriots WR corps that also includes newcomer JuJu Smith-Schuster, DeVante Parker and 2022 second-rounder Tyquan Thornton. As long as all four are healthy, Bourne's target volume could fluctuate, but the 28-year-old has the ability to re-emerge as a factor in deeper PPR formats if he ends up logging steady snaps, either out of the gate or as the 2023 campaign progresses.

Bourne finished the 2022 season with 35 catches on 48 targets for 434 yards and a TD in 16 games to go along with six carries for 39 yards.

In his second campaign with the Patriots, Bourne's production took a dip from the 55/800/5 stat line he logged in 2021. The 27-year-old remains under contract with the Patriots next season, but Bourne's chances of a fantasy bounce-back in 2023 hinge on the composition of the team's wideout corps following free agency and the NFL draft. With that in mind, Nelson Agholor and Jakobi Meyers are slated to be free agents this offseason, while DeVante Parker and Tyquan Thornton remain under contract with New England.

Bourne was on the field for 28 of a possible 60 snaps in Sunday's 23-21 win over the Dolphins, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, en route to catching one of his two targets for 16 yards and carrying once for two yards.

After catching six of his nine targets for a season-high 100 yards and a TD in the Patriots' Week 16 loss to the Bengals, Bourne's role in the team's offense took a hit versus Miami, with Jakobi Meyers (nine targets) and Tyquan Thornton (seven targets) working as QB Mac Jones' top wideout targets in the contest. Looking ahead the New England's regular season finale this Sunday against the Bills, Bourne profiles as a hit-or-miss fantasy option.

Bourne brought in six of nine targets for 100 yards and a touchdown and rushed once for 29 yards in the Patriots' 22-18 loss to the Bengals on Saturday.

Bourne was the surprise leader in receptions, receiving yards and targets on the afternoon in what was DeVante Parker's second straight absence due to a concussion. Bourne's season-high reception and receiving yardage figures came on the heels of a blanking over just 10 snaps against the Raiders in Week 15, making it all the more surprising. The sixth-year pro's first chance to build on the resurgent effort comes in a Week 17 home matchup against the Dolphins on Sunday, Jan. 1.

Bourne was on the field for 11of a possible 65 snaps on offense in Sunday's 30-24 loss to the Raiders, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

In the process, Bourne -- who caught five passes for 47 yards in Week 14 -- didn't haul in his only target. Given that he was out-snapped by Tyquan Thornton (60), Nelson Agholor (54) and Jakobi Meyers (40) on Sunday, Bourne isn't a high-percentage fantasy option for this weekend's contest against the Bengals.

Bourne was on the field for 42 of a possible 59 snaps on offense in Monday's 27-13 win over the Cardinals en route to catching all five of his targets for 47 yards, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

The five catches marked a season-high for Bourne, whose profile in the Patriots' passing game expanded Monday with Jakobi Meyers (concussion) inactive and DeVante Parker (head) limited to just six snaps on the contest. Bourne's fantasy prospects in Week 15 hinge in large part on the availability of Meyers and Parker, but if neither are cleared for Sunday's game against the Raiders, Bourne could merit lineup consideration in deeper formats.

Bourne was on the field for 20 of a possible 54 snaps on offense in Thursday's 24-10 loss to the Bills, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

In the process, Bourne caught one of his two targets for 15 yards. With 19 catches for 226 yards (on 26 targets) through 11 games to date, Bourne is off the fantasy radar in all but the deepest of formats while working in a wideout corps that also includes Jakobi Meyers, DeVante Parker, Nelson Agholor and Tyquan Thornton.

Bourne recorded three receptions on four targets for 36 yards in Thursday's 33-26 loss to the Vikings. He also had one rush for minus-seven yards.

Bourne got involved in the offense in the fourth quarter as New England attempted to make up a one-score deficit. He hauled in catches of 14 and 17 yards, though the latter came with only 28 seconds left and the Vikings playing prevent defense. Bourne played 38 offensive snaps, but that was in part due to an injury scare for Jakobi Meyers (shoulder), who played a season-low 16 snaps on the night.

Bourne, who was on the field for 24 of a possible 63 snaps on offense in Sunday's 10-3 win over the Jets, caught his only target in the contest for eight yards, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

For the fourth time in his last five games, Bourne recorded just one target, a rate of volume that keeps the 27-year old off the fantasy radar ahead of Thursday's game against the Vikings. Overall, Bourne -- who recorded 55 catches last season -- has caught 15 of his 20 targets for 175 yards through nine contests.

Bourne, who was on the field for 48 of a possible 63 snaps on offense in Sunday's 26-3 win over the Colts, caught three of his four targets for 11 yards in the contest, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

After having recorded just one target in three consecutive games, Bourne -- who also carried once for one yard -- was more involved in the Patriots' passing game Sunday, with DeVante Parker (knee) out, but it didn't amount to much fantasy production. With Parker potentially back in action following the Patriots' bye, Bourne's lineup upside remains limited ahead of the team's Nov. 20 contest against the Jets.

Bourne was on the field for 54 of a possible 78 snaps on offense in Sunday's 22-17 win over the Jets, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Despite being out there for 69 percent of the Patriots' plays on offense, Bourne didn't catch a pass Sunday, while recording just one target for his third consecutive contest. Until additional volume heads his way on a regular basis, Bourne is off the fantasy radar.

Bourne (toe) doesn't carry an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Jets after practicing fully Friday.

Bourne, who didn't play this past Monday against the Bears, logged limited sessions Wednesday and Thursday before practicing fully Friday. The wideout is thus slated to suit up this weekend, though given his 11-156-0 receiving line on 14 targets through six games to date, he's not a high-percentage fantasy option.

Bourne (toe) was limited at practice Wednesday.

After being limited to just four snaps in Week 6 due to a toe injury, Bourne was inactive for Monday night's loss to the Bears. That the wideout continues to practice in a limited fashion suggests that he could play this weekend against the Jets, but until he's next able to get a full and productive game under his belt, Bourne isn't a high-percentage fantasy lineup option.

Bourne (toe) is inactive for Monday night's game against the Bears.

As a result, the Patriots' Week 7 wideout corps will feature Jakobi Meyers, DeVante Parker, Nelson Agholor and rookie Tyquan Thornton, with Thornton a candidate to continue to see his profile in the team's offense expand in Bourne's absence.

Bourne (toe) isn't expected to play Monday night against the Bears, Michael Giardi of NFL Network reports.

With Nelson Agholor (hamstring) also iffy for the contest, rookie Tyquan Thornton is a candidate to log added Week 7 WR snaps if Bourne and/or Agholor are out or limited versus Chicago.

Bourne (toe) is listed as questionable for Monday's game against the Bears, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

The Patriots listed a number of a players with questionable designations despite practicing in limited fashion Saturday, so it's hard to say for certain what Bourne's status will be for the prime-time game. Expect more information to be announced closer to Monday's 8:15 p.m. ET kickoff. With an 11-156-0 receiving line on 14 targets through six games to date, however, Bourne is only a lineup consideration in deeper fantasy formats.

Bourne (toe) remained limited at practice Friday.

Bourne was limited to just four snaps in last weekend's win over the Browns due to a toe injury and appears to be trending toward an official 'questionable' designation for Monday night's 8:15 ET kickoff. With an 11-156-0 line on 14 targets through six outings this season, however, Bourne profiles as a hit-or-miss fantasy option in advance of Week 7 action.

Bourne (toe) was limited at practice Thursday.

A toe injury restricted Bourne to four snaps in this past Sunday's win over the Browns, but the wideout's limited participation Thursday gives him a chance to suit up Monday night against the Bears. That said with an 11/156/0 stat line on 14 targets in six appearances to date this season, Bourne is only an option in deeper fantasy formats.

Bourne appears to be dealing with a mild case of turf toe, Zack Cox of NESN reports.

Turf toe can cause multi-week absences, but Bourne's case "doesn't seem that serious," so he might be able to keep playing through it. The wide receiver played just four snaps in Week 6 against the Browns before exiting the game, though he remained on the sidelines with his teammates. Expect Bourne's practice reps to be capped ahead of New England's Week 7 MNF matchup with the Bears.

Bourne was forced out of Sunday's game against the Browns with a toe injury.

Prior to his exit, Bourne caught his only target for 17 yards. In his absence, Tyquan Thornton is in line to see added wideout snaps alongside Jakobi Meyers and DeVante Parker.

Bourne, who was on the field for a season-high 34 (of a possible 60) snaps on offense in Sunday's 29-0 win over the Lions, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, caught his only target in the game for one yard.

Bourne also rushed once for minus-1 yards Sunday, in a contest in which Jakobi Meyers (7/111/1 on eight targets) was clearly QB Bailey Zappe's preferred WR option. With a 10/139/0 stat line on 13 targets through five games, Bourne will remain off the fantasy radar in all but the deepest of formats until he starts seeing consistent volume.

Bourne logged 26 of a possible 58 snaps on offense in Sunday's 27-24 loss to the Packers en route to catching two of his three targets for 23 yards and rushing once for 15 yards, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Though fellow wideout Jakobi Meyers (knee) remained sidelined Sunday, Bourne didn't see heavy volume in Week 4 and with the Patriots' QB situation looking cloudy in the short term due to injuries to Mac Jones (ankle) and Brian Hoyer (head), Bourne remains a speculative fantasy option ahead of this weekend's game against the Lions.

Bourne brought in four of five targets for 58 yards and committed a fumble that was recovered by the Patriots in a 37-26 loss to the Ravens on Sunday.

Even with fellow wideout Jakobi Meyers (knee) sidelined, Bourne couldn't take full advantage. However, after a relatively lackluster first two games, Bourne at least set new season highs in receptions, receiving yards and targets. The veteran wideout posted an encouraging 55-800-5 line across 17 games in his first Patriots campaign in 2021, and perhaps Sunday's improved showing is a sign he'll become progressively more involved as the season unfolds.

Bourne was on the field for 24 of a possible 68 snaps on offense in Sunday's 17-14 win over the Steelers, en route to catching two of his three targets for 16 yards, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Bourne was more involved the Patriots offense Sunday than he was in the team's season opener (two snaps), but until he sees more consistent playing time and targets, he'll be a risky fantasy lineup option. Through New England's first two games, Jakobi Meyers and Nelson Agholor profile as QB Mac Jones' preferred wide receiver options.

Bourne was on the field for just two of the Patriots' 57 snaps on offense in Sunday's 20-7 loss to the Dolphins, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Bourne's lone target in the contest resulted in a 41-yard gain, but for now it looks like he's behind DeVante Parker (57 snaps), Jakobi Meyers (50 snaps) and Nelson Agholor (33 snaps) in the Patriots' wide receiver pecking order. Until steady snaps and targets come his way, Bourne is off the fantasy radar, though it's quite possible that he'll be more involved in the team's Week 2 contest against the Steelers, with his workload this coming Sunday thus worth monitoring.

Bourne brought in two of three targets for 16 yards in the Patriots' 23-6 preseason loss to the Raiders on Friday night.

Bourne logged his first target of the game on the Patriots' second possession and tied with a slew of other pass catchers for second on the team in receptions. The veteran logged career highs in receptions (55) and receiving yards (800) in his first Patriots campaign in 2021 while also tying his high-water mark in touchdowns (five), and he's set to open the season as the No. 3 wideout against the Dolphins in a Week 1 road divisional matchup Sept. 11.

Bourne was present for warmups ahead of Friday's preseason finale against the Raiders, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.

Per coach Bill Belichick, Bourne "wasn't available" for last week's preseason game versus the Panthers, but it looks like the wideout could see some snaps in the team's exhibition finale. That said, according to Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, the expectation is for most of the Patriots' top players to see minimal playing time Friday.

Coach Bill Belichick said Bourne "wasn't available" for Friday's preseason game versus the Panthers, Zack Cox of NESN.com reports.

Bourne wasn't involved in pregame warmups and wasn't in uniform for the Patriots' second exhibition. His current standing on the team may stem from being ejected from a joint session with the Panthers earlier this week, but he also recently was relegated to the second-team offense in practice, per Cox. Bourne is part of a crowded wide receiver room in New England, so he may be on thin ice with Belichick and the coaching staff.

Bourne wasn't spotted in warmups in advance of Friday's preseason contest against the Panthers, Zack Cox of NESN.com reports.

Though the Patriots aren't compelled to announce inactives in advance of preseason games, Bourne's absence from warmups is notable. While Bourne doesn't have any known injury concerns, Mike Reiss of ESPN points out that wideout was ejected from practice Tuesday following a practice scuffle.

Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald relays that over the past two weeks, Bourne logged the fewest catches in team drills during practice.

Bourne finished the 2021 season with 55 catches (on 70 targets) for 800 yards and five touchdowns to go along with 12 carries for 125 yards in 17 games, and as training camp approached he looked to reestablish his key role in a WR corps that also includes DeVante Parker, Jakobi Meyers, Nelson Agholor and second-round draft pick Tyquan Thornton. Though Callahan suggests that Bourne's roster spot appears secure, the 27-year-old does face added competition for targets this season and a rebound at practice in the coming weeks would no doubt help solidify his role. With the Patriots expected to play their key healthy skill players some in Friday night's game against the Panthers, Bourne appears poised to make his preseason debut.

As training camp approaches, the Patriots' wide receiver corps is slated to be headed by DeVante Parker, Jakobi Meyers, Bourne and Nelson Agholor, Paul Perillo of the team's official site reports.

Meanwhile, second-round draft pick Tyquan Thornton looks like a roster lock, though the speedster figures to be eased into the mix, while 2019 first-rounder N'Keal Harry is a candidate to be moved. With the Patriots also rostering a pair of capable pass-catching tight ends in Hunter Henry and Jonnu Smith, there's a lot of mouths to feed in the team's offense. In that context, any potential uptick in Bourne's production this coming season hinges on the continuing development of second-year signal-caller Mac Jones as well as his volume not being suppressed due to the potential of the team spreading the ball around to its many targets. Bourne -- who turns 27 on Aug. 4 -- finished the 2021 regular season with 55 catches (on 70 targets) for 800 yards and five touchdowns to go along with 12 carries for 125 yards in 17 games.

Bourne finished the 2021 regular season with 55 catches (on 70 targets) for 800 yards and five touchdowns to go along with 12 carries for 125 yards in 17 games

Bourne, who averaged 14.5 yards per catch, also logged a 25-yard TD pass and is slated to remain a key cog in New England's passing offense next season, per Paul Perillo of the team's official site. The 26-year-old, who is signed through 2023, should once again be joined by Jakobi Meyers (a pending restricted free agent) and Nelson Agholor (signed through 2022), but how the team's WR depth chart will look beyond that trio remains to be seen.

Bourne recorded seven receptions on eight targets for 77 yards and two touchdowns in Saturday's 47-17 wild-card round loss to Buffalo.

Bourne finished second on the team in targets, but was by far the most productive receiver for New England. Nearly all of his production came in the second half with the game out of reach, but he tallied a long gain of 43 yards and found the end zone from three and four yards away, respectively. Bourne remains under contract in New England for the 2022 season, though the team could release him with him little penalty in terms of dead cap space. Should he return to the Patriots, Bourne would likely work behind at least Jakobi Meyers and potentially Nelson Agholor as well as any other offseason upgrades at the position.

Bourne logged 36 of a possible 62 snaps on offense in Sunday's 33-24 loss to the Dolphins, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

In the process, Bourne carried once for eight yards and caught three of his four targets for 24 yards, bringing his final regular season receiving line to 55/800/5 on 70 targets, to go along with 12 carries for 125 yards in 17 games. In the Patriots' playoff opener this coming Saturday, the 26-year-old will square off against a Buffalo defense that surrendered a league-low average of 163 passing yards per game during the 2021 campaign.

Bourne brought five of six targets for 76 yards and rushed twice for 17 yards in the Patriots' 50-10 win over the Jaguars on Sunday.

The veteran led the Patriots in receiving yardage while posting his best total in that category since Week 10. Bourne also logged multiple rush attempts for the second time in the last three games, a role that's expanded some for him in the second half of the season. Bourne needs three receptions in the Week 18 clash against the Dolphins to eclipse the career-best 49 he recorded in 2020 with the 49ers.

Bourne caught two of four targets for 33 yards in Sunday's 33-21 loss to Buffalo.

Damien Harris scored all three of New England's touchdowns on the ground as the passing game struggled mightily. Case in point, Bourne finished second on the team in receiving yards and tied for second in catches, trailing only Jakobi Meyers, who had six catches for 59 yards. Since his two-touchdown outburst in Week 12 against the Titans, Bourne has mustered just five catches for 77 yards in three subsequent appearances. Perhaps a Week 17 visit from the Jaguars will help Bourne get back on track.

Bourne has been activated from the reserve/COVID-19 list ahead of Sunday's game against the Bills, per the NFL's official transaction log.

Given that Nelson Agholor (concussion) has been ruled out for the contest, look for Jakobi Meyers and Bourne to head the Patriots' Week 16 wideout corps, with N'Keal Harry (hip/questionable) a candidate for added work, if active. The last time New England and Buffalo played each other (back in Week 13), windy conditions led to Bourne not seeing any of QB Mac Jones' three passing targets. This time around, Bourne - who caught all three of his targets for 44 yards and ran twice for 19 yards in last weekend's loss to the Colts - is candidate to see enough touches to help out those looking for Week 16 wideout help.

Bourne has reportedly cleared COVID-19 protocols and is expected to play Sunday against the Bills, according to Andrew Callahan of Boston Herald.

We'll wait confirmation from the Patriots once the team's Saturday transactions are posted, but with Nelson Agholor (concussion) ruled out for the contest, look for Jakobi Meyers and Bourne -- if available -- to head the team's Week 16 wideout corps.

The Patriots hope to have Bourne (illness) available for Sunday's game against Buffalo, Andrew Callahan of Boston Herald reports.

The wideout reportedly is vaccinated and thus stands a chance to be removed from the reserve/COVID-19 list this weekend. Bourne could have a larger-than-usual role if he plays, with Nelson Agholor (head) ruled out and N'Keal Harry (hip) listed as questionable. Harry does appear on track to play, and could be looking at a near-every-down role if both Agholor and Bourne are out.

Bourne still has a chance to play in Sunday's game against the Bills after being placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list this Wednesday, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Bourne is vaccinated, and the timing of his placement on the COVID list gives him 5-6 days to test negative on back-to-back days. It's still probably no better than 50/50, and the Pats also have other issues at wide receiver with Nelson Agholor (head) and N'Keal Harry (head) both getting banged up during Saturday's loss to Indianapolis.

Bourne (undisclosed) has been placed on the reserve/COVID 19 list, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

With Nelson Agholor (head) having suffered a head injury during Saturday's game against the Colts, N'Keal Harry (undisclosed) possibly banged up and Bourne now on the reserve/COVID 19 list, the Patriots' top available WR options who are free of any Week 16 availability concerns are Jakobi Meyers and Gunner Olszewski.

Bourne was not targeted during Monday's 14-10 win over the Bills. He did have one carry for three yards.

Bourne posted a two-touchdown, 61-yard performance against the Titans prior to being shut out against Buffalo, a game which was played in extremely windy conditions and saw the Patriots offense lean on the running game almost every snap. In fact, quarterback Mac Jones attempted just three passes in the divisional win. After the team's Week 14 bye, Bourne will get a chance to bounce back on the road in Indianapolis.

Bourne caught five of six targets for 61 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 36-13 win over the Titans.

Bourne scored a four-yard touchdown in the first quarter, but most of his damage came on a 41-yard touchdown grab in the third. New England's offense tends to rotate its featured options on a weekly basis, but Bourne has emerged as the top scoring threat among the team's wide receivers. Bourne's five receiving touchdowns rank second behind tight end Hunter Henry's seven, and Nelson Agholor (three) is the only other player on the team with more than one. Building on this effort won't be easy for Bourne in Week 13 against the stingy Bills secondary.

Bourne secured all four of his targets for 42 yards in the Patriots' 25-0 win over the Falcons on Thursday night. He also rushed once for seven yards.

Bourne's yardage total narrowly outpaced that of Nelson Agholor's (40) for the team lead. The 26-year-old now has at least four receptions in four of the last five contests, and he's become an increasingly reliable target for rookie quarterback Mac Jones with a catch rate that now sits at an impressive 78.7 percent. Bourne's next opportunity to add to his numbers comes in a Week 12 home matchup a week from Sunday against a Titans defense that's been very generous to wide receivers all season.

Bourne caught four passes for 98 yards and one touchdown on four targets against Cleveland on Sunday.

Nelson Agholor (two catches for 21 yards on four targets) has played more than Bourne this year, with Bourne mostly playing in three-wide formations, but production like this might force the Patriots to reconsider how they distribute playing time among their wide receivers. Agholor has more speed to offer than Bourne, who doesn't have much himself, but Agholor is often a zero in traffic whereas Bourne is largely known for making memorable catches in traffic. The playing time split between Bourne and Agholor is worth monitoring as they take on Atlanta on Thursday.

Bourne caught three of four targets for 34 yards in Sunday's 24-6 win over the Panthers.

The Patriots led comfortably for the majority of this contest, so the air attack wasn't asked to do much overall. Bourne ended up leading all wideouts in targets, receptions and yardage. The veteran wideout has posted a couple of strong statistical games this year, but his upside is generally capped by a conservative offensive gameplan. Bourne and the Patriots will face a stiff test against the Browns' tough pass defense in Week 10.

Bourne caught four of his seven targets for 38 yards in Sunday's 27-24 win over the Chargers.

Per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com, Bourne's 23 snaps in the contest were a season-low, as he mostly stayed on the sideline after a third-quarter fumble. He'll look to bounce back next Sunday against the Panthers, but with Jakobi Meyers, Nelson Agholor and N'Keal Harry also in the team's wideout mix, Bourne's weekly production could be sporadic.

Bourne (shoulder) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Chargers.

Bourne, who practiced in a limited fashion this week, will give it a go Sunday, but he profiles as a hit-or-miss fantasy option, while sharing the Patriots' wide receiver looks with Jakobi Meyers, Nelson Agholor and N'Keal Harry, to a lesser degree. In last Sunday's 54-13 win over the Jets, Bourne - who is averaging four targets and 50 receiving yards a game to date -- caught all four of the passes thrown his way for 68 yards, while adding a 25-yard TD toss to Agholor.

Bourne (shoulder) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Chargers after practicing in a limited fashion this week.

That said, Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald relayed Friday that Bourne is expected to be available this weekend. Official confirmation of the wideout's Week 8 status will arrive upon the release of the Patriots' inactives prior to Sunday's 4:05 ET kickoff, but it looks like Bourne -- who caught all four of his targets for 68 yards last weekend in a win over the Jets -- is trending toward active status.

Bourne (shoulder) is one of 15 players listed by New England as a limited practice participant Wednesday, Zack Cox of NESN.com reports.

Cox notes that Bourne came down on his shoulder on his 46-yard reception in this past Sunday's win over the Jets, but so far there's nothing to suggest that the wideout's Week 8 status is in danger. That said, Bourne will presumably need to practice fully Thursday or Friday in order to head into Sunday's game against the Chargers minus an injury designation.

Bourne logged 41 of a possible 76 snaps on offense in Sunday's 54-13 win over the Jets, en route to catching all four of his targets for 68 yards, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Bourne's Week 7 fantasy stat line was bolstered by a 25-yard touchdown pass that he threw to Nelson Agholor to open the scoring in what turned into a blowout. Though seven games this season, Bourne -- whose only catch in Week 6 resulting in a 75-yard score -- is averaging four targets, a context that makes him a hit-or-miss lineup option heading into New England's Week 8 road tilt against the Chargers.

Bourne caught one of two targets for a 75-yard touchdown in Sunday's 35-29 overtime loss to the Cowboys.

In a wild back-and-forth contest, Bourne was involved in maybe the two wildest plays of all. On the first ball Mac Jones threw his way, Bourne let the pass tip off his fingers straight to Trevon Diggs, who returned it 42 yards for a TD that put Dallas ahead 26-21. On New England's very next possession, Jones looked Bourne's way again and this time the receiver hung onto the ball between two defenders before racing to the end zone for what proved to be the final points of the game for the Pats. Despite the big catch, his two targets were a season low, and Bourne's inconsistent usage makes him tough to roster in most fantasy formats heading into a Week 7 clash with the Jets.

Bourne logged 36 of a possible 59 snaps on offense in Sunday's 19-17 loss to the Buccaneers, en route to catching all five of his target for 58 yards, NESN's Zack Cox reports.

Bourne, who opened the season with two modest efforts, now has 11 catches on 13 targets for 154 yards and a TD over his last two games. While Jakobi Meyers (27 catches for 246 yards to date) has emerged as QB Mac Jones' favorite target, Bourne's recent chemistry with the rookie signal-caller suggests that he could maintain PPR utility in Week 5, with what looks like a favorable matchup versus Houston on tap.

Bourne had six receptions (eight targets) for 96 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 28-13 loss to the Saints.

Bourne broke out in a big way after posting just three receptions for 17 yards over the first two games of the season. A big reason for the uptick in production was Mac Jones' inability to connect with top target Nelson Agholor (two catches on eight targets), who had to deal with the return of shutdown corner Marshon Lattimore (hand). Bourne remains third on the wide receiver depth chart, so fantasy managers shouldn't overreact to this huge performance. Up next is a matchup with the Buccaneers next Sunday.

Bourne caught two of his three targets for 10 yards in Sunday's 25-6 win over the Jets.

Bourne, who was out there for 31 of the team's 58 snaps on offense, was once again out-snapped by fellow WRs Jakobi Meyers (52) and Nelson Agholor (50), en route to his second straight three-target contest. Down the road, there will be games where Bourne is more involved in the team's passing game, but for now he profiles as a complementary option in an offense that spreads the ball around.

Bourne was on the field for 33 of a possible 75 snaps on offense in Sunday's 17-16 loss to the Dolphins, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com reports.

Bourne was out-snapped by fellow WRs Jakobi Meyers (74) and Nelson Agholor (64), en route to catching one of his three targets for 17 yards. Though he'll no doubt have weeks where he's more involved in the team's passing game, steady volume may be hard to come by for him with RB James White and TEs Jonnu Smith and Hunter Henry also commanding their share of targets on a weekly basis.

Bourne caught one of his two targets for 23 yards in Thursday's 35-0 preseason win over the Eagles.

Per NESN's Zack Cox, Bourne logged 31 snaps in the contest, while Jakobi Meyers and Nelson Agholor "got the starting wideout treatment, playing 15 and 14 snaps, respectively." Cox also noted that the trio look "like sure bets to be the Patriots' top receivers this season." In that context, Bourne could emerge as a fantasy factor in deeper formats, though it must be noted that New England's attack could well feature a run-heavy approach and plenty of two-TE sets, a scenario that could make steady volume hard to come by for any of the team's key wide receivers.

In his latest 53-man roster projection, Paul Perillo of the Patriots' official site predicts that Jakobi Meyers, Nelson Agholor, Bourne and Gunner Olszewski will head the team's wideout corps out of the gate.

Perillo's projection supposes that N'Keal Harry, who's had a strong training camp to date, remains a candidate to be dealt, though that's not a lock to occur if the 2019 first-rounder continues his strong play. Either way, Bourne -- who signed three year, $15 million contract with New England this offseason -- seems destined for a key role in New England's passing attack in 2021, with his ability to line up outside or in the slot an asset in that regard. That said, steady volume may be an issue for Bourne, if the team leans heavily on the run and/or two tight-end sets in 2021, which is quite plausible.

In his latest 53-man roster projection, Paul Perillo of the Patriots' official site predicts that Jakobi Meyers, Nelson Agholor, Bourne and Gunner Olszewski will head the team's wideout corps out of the gate.

Perillo's projection supposes that N'Keal Harry, who's had a strong training camp to date, remains a candidate to be dealt, though that's not a lock to occur if the 2019 first-rounder continues his strong play. Either way, Bourne -- who signed three year, $15 million contract with New England this offseason -- seems destined for a key role in New England's passing attack in 2021, with his ability to line up outside or in the slot an asset in that regard. That said, steady volume may be an issue for Bourne, if the team leans heavily on the run and/or two tight-end sets in 2021, which is quite plausible.

Bourne has an opportunity to emerge as the Patriots' top slot option with Julian Edelman having retired, Zack Cox of NESN.com reports.

Like fellow free-agent acquisition Nelson Agholor and returnee Jakobi Meyers, Bourne has the versatility to line up outside or in the slot. Edelman's departure following a productive stint with the Patriots that began in 2009 sets the stage for a revamped wide receiver depth chart in New England this coming season. As things stand, Bourne -- who logged a 49-667-2 stat line in 15 games for the 49ers in 2020 -- is in line to be a key target for Cam Newton. If Agholor is extensively as a deep threat by New England, it's plausible that Bourne's share of the team's slot targets could translate into PPR relevance for the 25-year-old.

The Patriots and Bourne agreed to terms on a three-year, $22.5 million contract Monday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

On the first day of the legal tampering period, New England has restocked its receiving corps with the additions of Bourne, wideout Nelson Agholor and tight end Jonnu Smith. Bourne's versatility should allow him to stay on the field regularly, and he's coming off career bests in both catches (49), receiving yards (667) and targets (74) in 2020.

Bourne and the 49ers are discussing a new contract, Cam Inman of The Mercury News reports.

Bourne acknowledges he won't be the team's top priority this offseason, but he still hopes to work something out. The 2017 UDFA is scheduled to become a free agent for the first time, following a 2020 campaign with career highs for targets (74), catches (49), receiving yards (667), yards per catch (13.6) and yards per target (9.0). Bourne never saw a ton of volume, but his ability to play both outside and in the slot helped the San Francisco offense stay semi-respectable amidst an onslaught of injuries. Bourne will turn 26 in August, and he believes his experience in Kyle Shanahan's offense will serve him well even if he doesn't stay in San Francisco.

Bourne finished the 202 season with 49 receptions (74 targets) for 667 yards and two touchdowns over 15 contests.

The 49ers had high hopes for their trio of high-round picks entering the 2020 season, but just like most things last calendar year, nothing went as planned. Deebo Samuel (second round in 2019) suffered a foot injury during training camp and Dante Pettis (second round in 2018) squandered yet another opportunity and wound up being released in October. Brandon Aiyuk (first round in 2020) had the best season of the high-pedigree trio -- despite missing games due to injury himself -- and Bourne consistently stepped in as a reliable starting option for head coach Kyle Shanahan. The undrafted wideout posted the highest reception average (13.6 YPR) of any qualified San Francisco starter while accounting for 13.1 percent of the team's targets. The 49ers' run-heavy gameplan and mediocre quarterback play kept Bourne from ever cracking lineups in standard fantasy formats. The 25-year-old doesn't possess tremendous upside, but his soft hands and consistent play could shine brighter if he lands with a more pass-friendly of

Bourne logged just 19 snaps on offense (34 percent) Saturday, catching his lone target for 16 yards in a 20-12 win over Arizona.

The 49ers featured a heavy rushing gameplan against the Cardinals, resulting in just 22 pass attempts and only four going towards wide receivers. Bourne also saw his playing time decrease as a result of George Kittle coming off of injured reserve, as the team ran more formations with two tight ends and just two or fewer wideouts on the field. Two of San Francisco's top three pass catchers are arguably its tight ends (Kittle and Jordan Reed), so Bourne -- who is currently the team's slot man -- may struggle to see the field against Seattle on Sunday.

Bourne logged 42 offensive snaps (50 percent) and hauled in all four of his targets for 86 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 41-33 loss to Dallas.

Bourne made an impressive leaping grab above a sea of Dallas defenders on a 49-yard heave by C.J. Beathard on the final play of the contest. The score had no effect on the final result, but garbage time or not, the end result was a new season high in receiving yards for the veteran wideout. Bourne stuck at third on the depth chart even after starter Deebo Samuel (hamstring) was ruled out for the rest of the year. It was Richie James Jr. (54 snaps, four catches, seven targets and 56 yards) who jumped up to second on the depth chart starting opposite Brandon Aiyuk. It is highly improbable that Bourne will catch an amazing Hail Mary attempt every week, so expectations should be held in check while he occupies a slot/third receiver role against the Cardinals on Saturday.

Bourne caught three of seven targets for 42 yards during Sunday's 23-15 loss to Washington.

Deebo Samuel (hamstring) was injured on the second play from scrimmage, leaving Bourne to pick up the slack in the passing game. He finished second on the team in targets but caught less than half the balls thrown his way and finished with rather modest production. If Samuel is forced to miss next Sunday's game against the Cowboys, Bourne could see some extra targets once again.

Bourne played 49 percent of offensive snaps and logged four receptions (six targets) for 35 yards in Monday's 34-24 loss to the Bills.

Bourne remained at third on the 49ers' wide receiver depth chart following the return of Brandon Aiyuk (reserve/COVID-19) to the starting lineup; it was Richie James (seven offensive snaps) who was bumped down from second to fourth on the depth chart. The veteran wideout would have had a better fantasy outing had the official unit not overturned what was initially ruled a touchdown in the fourth quarter. It was a questionable decision considering there didn't appear to be clear evidence to make a ruling in either direction, which usually results in the referees on field to let the initial call "stand." Bourne didn't get another shot to score after quarterback Nick Mullens caused a false start and then promptly threw an interception in the end zone. The 25-year-old won't draw much fantasy appeal heading into Sunday's tilt against Washington as the slot man in an offense that requires heavy volume or a trip to the end zone in order to post usable statistics.

Bourne had three receptions (five targets) for 34 yards in Sunday's 23-20 win over the Rams.

Deebo Samuel (hamstring) made his long-awaited return following the team's bye week, but with Brandon Aiyuk (reserve/COVID-19) out of action, Bourne stuck at third on the depth chart and logged 57 percent of the snaps. The veteran wideout finished ahead of second-string starter Richie James Jr. (88 percent of snaps for one reception for 29 yards) in terms of fantasy production, but that should be considered an anomaly if their snap counts remain consistent going forward. Expect Bourne to fill a similar slot role against the Bills on Monday if Aiyuk is forced to miss another game.

Bourne caught four of five targets for 26 yards during Sunday's 27-13 loss to the Saints.

Bourne finished third on the team in both targets and receptions, though his average of 6.5 yards per catch was nothing to write home about. He was on the reserve/COVID-19 list in the days leading up to the game but he displayed no ill effects after taking the last couple of weeks to recuperate. Bourne will now rest up over the bye before taking on the Rams November 29th, when his role could diminish if Deebo Samuel (hamstring) is cleared to return.

Bourne (undisclosed) was activated from the reserve/COVID-19 list Friday and will travel with the team to New Orleans Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

The 25-year-old landed on the reserve/COVID-19 list before last week's loss to the Packers and had yet to practice this week, but he'll rejoin the team in time for Week 10. Bourne is coming off his best performance of the season (eight catches for 81 yards) against the Seahawks, and he could be similarly involved this weekend with Deebo Samuel (hamstring) not expected to play Sunday.

Coach Kyle Shanahan is hopeful Bourne (undisclosed) will be able to practice later this week, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

Bourne currently is logging his second stint on the reserve/COVID-19 list in the last week, but the 49ers seemingly are confident that was merely the result of false positives and not an actual bout with the illness. While he'll have to be activated from the aforementioned list in order to get back on the field, he does have two more chances to practice this week.

The 49ers placed Bourne on the reserve/COVID-19 list Monday, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

Bourne was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list last Wednesday after testing positive for the virus, but subsequent negative tests allowed him to be activated on Friday. Now, however, it appears that new developments will require the 25-year-old wideout to return to the reserve list. With Deebo Samuel (hamstring) still banged up, Brandon Aiyuk, Richie James and Trent Taylor are currently the only fully available wideouts on San Francisco's roster.

The 49ers activated Bourne from the reserve/COVID-19 list Friday.

Bourne was placed on the list Wednesday after testing positive earlier that day, but negative tests Thursday and Friday seemingly confirmed that the initial result was a false positive. The wideout was still forced to miss Thursday's 34-17 loss to the Packers, while fellow receivers Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel and offensive tackle Trent Williams also sat out after being deemed close contacts of Bourne. In addition to Bourne, Aiyuk, Samuel and Williams were also activated Friday, so all four should be available for the 49ers' next game Nov. 15 in New Orleans.

Bourne is eligible to be removed from the reserve/COVID-19 list after he received another negative test Friday morning, Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle reports.

It appears it was a false positive that prevented Bourne from playing in Thursday's loss to the Packers. WR Brandon Aiyuk, LT Trent Williams and WR Deebo Samuel (hamstring) also are eligible to be removed from the reserve/COVID-19 list, though Samuel's hamstring injury could prevent him from playing Week 10 against New Orleans.

Bourne (illness) tested negative for COVID-19 on Thursday, but he'll remain out for the 49ers' game against the Packers later in the day, Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

According to Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area, Bourne believes that his COVID-19 test result from Wednesday was a false positive, as he and the three other individuals that live with him all tested negative a day later. Even so, NFL protocols won't afford Bourne enough time to gain clearance for Thursday's game, leaving the 49ers extremely thin at wide receiver with Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk also on the reserve/COVID-19 list. Considering Samuel and Aiyuk were placed on the list due to being high-risk close contacts of Bourne, Chan notes that all players likely would have removed from the list had the 49ers been playing a Sunday or Monday game this week. With that in mind, Bourne should be ready to go for the 49ers' Week 10 game Nov. 15 in New Orleans.

The 49ers placed Bourne (illness) on the reserve/COVID-19 list Wednesday, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

After testing positive earlier Wednesday, Bourne was destined to land on this list. He'll thus be unavailable for Thursday's game against the Packers and perhaps beyond, as long as he's dealing with the illness. The 49ers receiving corps is down Deebo Samuel (hamstring) and George Kittle (foot) as well, leaving Brandon Aiyuk, Trent Taylor, Richie James (ankle) and Ross Dwelley as the likely available pass catchers Week 9.

Bourne has tested positive for COVID-19, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.

This news follows reports that the 49ers have shut down their facility due to COVID-19 test results, with the team set to perform contact tracing Wednesday. The 49ers are scheduled to host the Packers Thursday night at 8:20 ET.

Bourne recorded eight receptions on 10 targets for 81 yards in Week 8 against the Seahawks.

Bourne showed a connection with Nick Mullens during the fourth quarter, racking up 59 of his 81 yards on the team's final two drives. He was able to command a season best eight targets in the absence of Deebo Samuel (hamstring) and George Kittle (ankle). Game script also aided Bourne's output, as the team was playing from behind throughout the entire second half. With a quick turnaround for a Week 9 matchup against the Packers on Thursday, Bourne could be pushed into a significant role once again.

Bourne did not have any receptions (one target) in Sunday's 33-6 victory over the Patriots.

The 49ers turned in a performance reminiscent of its run to the Super Bowl in 2019 where the ground game and defense dominated the opponent so effectively that they barely needed to pass. This game script affected Bourne the most, as he was left without a reception for the first time this season despite being on the field for 45 percent of the team's offensive snaps. Bourne -- who has been serving as the team's slot man in recent weeks -- should return to the starting lineup against the Seahawks in Week 8 after coach Kyle Shanahan announced that Deebo Samuel (hamstring) will "miss some time" after sustaining yet another lower-body injury Sunday.

Bourne had two receptions (three targets) for 44 yards in Sunday's 24-16 win over the Rams.

Bourne finished third in receptions, targets, yardage and playing time (56 percent of offensive snaps) for the 49ers in a game where the passing offense returned to life. The 25-year-old also appears to be firmly entrenched at third on the wide receiver depth chart behind Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk, which lowers the cap on his already limited fantasy value. Bourne will have to find the end zone in order to provide fantasy value against the Patriots on Sunday.

Bourne had two receptions (four targets) for 30 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 43-17 loss to Miami.

Bourne was finally able to find the end zone for the first time this season, even if it happened to come in garbage time of a blowout loss. The negative news for the veteran wideout is that he moved to third on the depth chart (66 percent of offensive snaps) with both Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk fully healthy on the field together for the first time this year. The 49ers' struggles in the passing game already limited Bourne's value when he was a starter, and the slight hit in value will limit him to deeper fantasy formats and a DFS flyer going forward.

Bourne had three receptions (six targets) for 33 yards in Sunday's 25-20 loss to the Eagles.

Bourne's six targets actually led all San Francisco wideouts, but in true Kyle Shanahan style, a running back and tight end surpassed his target share. The veteran wideout has had a steady floor through four games, but the lack of touchdowns has hurt the potential for fantasy value. The return of Deebo Samuel (foot) and the emergence of rookie Brandon Aiyuk could end up cutting into Bourne's production going forward.

Bourne secured four of six targets for 63 yards in the 49ers' 36-9 win over the Giants on Sunday.

The fourth-year wideout checked in second in receptions and receiving yards on the team for the afternoon, while his six looks were tied for that slotting with Jordan Reed (knee/ankle). Bourne now has eight receptions for 130 yards on 11 targets in the last two games, and with Deebo Samuel (foot) not likely to return until Week 5, Bourne should see another starting opportunity in a Week 4 Sunday night matchup against the Eagles.

Bourne had four catches (five targets) for 67 yards in Sunday's 31-13 win over the Jets.

With Deebo Samuel (foot) still on IR, Bourne stuck as the club's top producer on the outside even with the debut of rookie Brandon Aiyuk (hamstring). The 49ers were hurt the most by a slew of lower-body injuries sustained during a brutal Week 2 injury report, so this offense may look completely different down two starting running backs and most-likely its starting quarterback. This could lead to more passing volume for Bourne and San Francisco's other top receiving options even with backup Nick Mullens under center, who proved to be a capable signal caller back in 2018.

Bourne caught two of five targets for 34 yards during Sunday's 24-20 loss to the Cardinals.

With injuries mounting in the wideout room, Bourne saw an uptick in playing time in the season opener. He tied for the team lead in targets and made a couple of impressive gains, but he simply didn't see enough usage to post fantasy-friendly numbers. Bourne should see his share of targets next Sunday against the Jets, but he could be fairly reliant on big plays to make a splash.

Bourne is listed as a starter on the unofficial depth chart released by San Francisco on Wednesday, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

Bourne's standing above rookie first-round pick Brandon Aiyuk (hamstring) could be attributed in part to veteran deference, but it's worth noting that neither Aiyuk or Deebo Samuel (foot) can be considered a lock for Week 1. If any combination of Samuel and Aiyuk were forced to sit out Sunday's contest against the Cardinals, Bourne would certainly see increased work, and the depth chart has him ahead of both Trent Taylor and Dante Pettis. Bourne showcased a knack for the red zone in 2019, with five scores on just 30 receptions, so he could be a sneaky fantasy option for Week 1 if he's indeed handed a starting role.

Bourne and the 49ers have discussed a contract extension, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

Bourne is signed to a second-round restricted free agent tender for 2020, scheduled to make $3.26 million. The 2017 UDFA has never been much of a fantasy asset, but he did solid work for the Niners as a No. 3 receiver the past two seasons, averaging 7.7 yards on 110 targets while primarily operating from the slot. Bourne could see an uptick in usage early this season if Deebo Samuel is slow to recover from June foot surgery.

Bourne signed his restricted free agent tender Monday, Field Yates of ESPN reports.

San Francisco will pay Bourne $3.26 million in 2020 after tendering him at the second-round level last month. The wideout tallied 30 receptions for 358 yards and five touchdowns while playing a full 16-game slate last season.

The 49ers are giving Bourne a second-round tender, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

The draft pick protection will be more than sufficient to dissuade any offer sheets for the restricted free agent. Bourne did solid work out of the slot last season, but he won't necessarily be guaranteed the same job in 2020. His role depends on what the Niners do this offseason, starting with impending free agent Emmanuel Sanders.

Bourne caught two of four targets for 42 yards in a 31-20 loss to Kansas City in the Super Bowl.

Bourne played 48 percent of the snaps on offense and also got some work (eight snaps) on special teams. His 26-yard gain late in the third quarter helped set up a touchdown for Raheem Mostert, who plunged in from one yard out to give the Niners a 20-10 lead. Bourne consistently served as the 49ers' No. 3 wide receiver throughout the 2019 season, but the role typically doesn't require a ton of snaps or targets, as coach Kyle Shanahan favors two-back formations (with fullback Kyle Juszczyk) over three-wide sets. Bourne is scheduled to become a restricted free agent in the offseason, while fellow wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders is eligible for unrestricted free agency.

Bourne caught his lone target for a six-yard gain in Sunday's 37-20 win over Green Bay in the NFC Championship Game.

Bourne played a key role the previous week but was limited to 25 percent snap share in Sunday's blowout victory. He's locked in as the 49ers' No. 3 wide receiver ahead of a Super Bowl matchup with the Chiefs.

Bourne caught three of five targets for 40 yards and a touchdown in Saturday's 27-10 NFC divisional round victory over Minnesota.

Bourne's three catches tied Deebo Samuel for the team lead in receptions, but the former was the only receiver to hit pay dirt. It's tough to take away a whole lot from the 49ers' passing attack in this one, as the team played with the lead for the final three quarters and ran the ball 71 percent of the time. The 6-foot-1 wideout does offer upside in terms of his red-zone skills, as he now has six touchdowns on just 33 receptions this season, but he remains a cheap flyer in DFS formats heading into the NFC Championship Round next Sunday.