Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - OCTOBER 06: Kendrick Bourne #84 of the New England Patriots warms up prior to a game against the Miami Dolphins at Gillette Stadium on October 06, 2024 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images)
When the Washington Commanders finalized their 53-man roster on August 26, one position group immediately stood out. The team carried only five wide receivers on the final roster and potentially into Week 1 against the New York Giants. That’s a number that feels dangerously thin in today’s NFL. Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel give Washington a strong dynamic duo, but the depth behind them leaves major questions.
That is where Kendrick Bourne enters the conversation. Before the New England Patriots released Bourne on April 27, NFL Insider Lake Lewis Jr had already predicted a potential Washington signing as early as August 26 on multiple outlets.
@LakeLewisJr did say Bourne was a name to watch…. https://t.co/naSOMag2VQ
— Ballin In Burgundy Podcast (@BIBPodcast22) August 28, 2025
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js
@LakeLewisJr MENTIONED BOURNE POSSIBILITY on my show YESTERDAY 👀 #raisehail https://t.co/Zid5yDh2f5 pic.twitter.com/HKWPzqKXl3
— Rio Robinson (@Rio_Robinson91) August 27, 2025
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js
Lewis pointed out the Commanders’ lack of depth and Bourne’s past connection to General Manager Adam Peters as reasons the move made sense. Just one day later, Bourne’s release made the prediction all the more relevant.
The timing feels almost too perfect. Washington needs a veteran wideout who can step in and provide depth immediately, and Bourne needs a new home where his skill set is valued.
Peters’ Connection Strengthens the Fit
Peters knows Bourne well. During their shared time in San Francisco, Peters helped bring Bourne to the 49ers as an undrafted free agent in 2017. Bourne quickly earned a reputation as a reliable target who thrived in critical moments and played bigger than his role suggested. That history matters, especially when a front office is looking for dependable reinforcements late in the offseason and just before the regular season kicks off.
Bourne’s style would also mesh perfectly with Washington’s current offense. At six feet one inch tall with strong hands and sharp route running, he can play outside or in the slot. His versatility would complement McLaurin’s big-play ability and Samuel’s versatile skills, while giving star quarterback Jayden Daniels another trustworthy option.
Beyond the field, Bourne brings energy and leadership to any locker room. Washington’s offense is still developing chemistry, and a veteran presence like Bourne could provide the stability needed for the receiver group.
Why the Commanders Need Bourne Now
The Commanders cannot afford to gamble with such a thin receiver rotation. One injury could leave Daniels scrambling for targets, which is not the scenario head coach Dan Quinn or offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury want in their second season together. Bourne offers the kind of insurance policy that not only fills out the roster but also bolsters the entire position room.
With Peters’ familiarity, Bourne’s proven production, and Lewis’ early prediction framing him as an ideal fit, the potential signing feels like a move Washington should make sooner rather than later. Bourne is set for visits early next week with both the San Francisco 49ers and the Commanders. If he leaves the 49ers (first visit) without a deal, Washington will have a great chance to sign the veteran.
The Commanders are aiming to build long-term success, and giving their young quarterback more weapons is the best way to get there.
Bourne may not be the biggest name available, but he could be the smartest addition Washington makes before the season opener.