Kendrick Bourne Subtly Shades Patriots While Discussing Mac Jones’ Success with 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers have benefited from the connection between quarterback Mac Jones and wide receiver Kendrick Bourne this season.
Bourne, though, took a minor swipe at the New England Patriots in explaining Jones' resurgence in San Francisco.
Bourne and Jones were teammates together in New England and had some good success. The veteran receiver's best statistical season came in 2021, which was Jones' rookie year in the NFL and one in which he earned his first and only Pro Bowl.
In assisting that case, Bourne hauled in 55 catches for 800 yards and five touchdowns that year.
It seems that connection has not gone away even though the two are now with the Niners. Bourne appeared on KNBR 680 recently and was asked about why Jones has enjoyed such great success with San Francisco after things flamed out with the Pats.
Interestingly, Bournee threw some subtle shade at his former team in the process.
Kendrick Bourne tosses shade at Patriots amid Mac Jones' success with 49ers
"He's been able to be more free and like, who he is and showing it," Bourne said. "You know, obviously over there it's more strict, it's more blue collar and that's how they operate. But here, it's more about being yourself and being a professional at the same time."
Bourne is not exactly breaking any news by saying the vibe in New England under then-head coach Bill Belichick was strict. That is how they did things in New England for a long time, and it garnered excellent results even if Belichick is now struggling at the University of North Carolina.
Boston has always had a strict, puritanical vibe compared the free-loving and more open spirit of San Francisco. Some may thrive in the former while others thrive in the latter.
It seems Jones and Bourne are both better suited for the Bay. They are guys who like to be silly and have fun, but when it is go time, they lock in and can deliver the goods. The two hooked up to great effect last Thursday against the Los Angeles Rams as Bourne had a career game, hauling in 10 passes from Jones for 142 yards.
Bourne has definitely seems to have a better chemistry with Jones than quarterback Brock Purdy which makes sense given the ties he and Jones share. He may have a vested interest in Jones remaining the quarterback as Purdy works his way back from injury.
Purdy is still clearly the starting quarterback of the team, but the 49ers should be careful and not bring him back until he is healthy, especially with how well Jones has played in place of him.
The Niners should consider themselves lucky that they have both Jones and Bourne hooking up with their starting quarterback and top wide receivers injured.
And Jones and Bourne seem much happier in the more chill environment of California compared to the strictness of Boston.
BREAKING: Red Sox Shock MLB with 8-Year, $280 Million Mega-Deal for Trevor Story — Emotional "No-Trade" Clause Ties His Future to Fenway Forever
Fenway Park will soon witness a love story written in gold.
After years of battling injuries, overcoming doubts, and fighting through whispers about his future, Trevor Story has silenced the critics — and the Boston Red Sox have responded with unwavering faith. The Red Sox have reportedly inked the shortstop to a stunning 8-year, $280 million deal, securing his place in Boston for the foreseeable future. The blockbuster contract, which includes a “no-trade” clause, means Story’s future is tied to Fenway Park, where he will leave his legacy.
In an emotional press conference, Story was visibly moved as he reflected on the journey that brought him here. With tears in his eyes, he shared, “I thought they stopped believing in me. But now… I want to stay here forever.”
The contract, which will keep Story with the Red Sox through the 2033 season, is not just a financial commitment; it’s a symbol of the faith the organization has in their star player. Story’s signing signals that the Red Sox are fully invested in their future, with Story playing a central role as they chase championship aspirations in the years to come.
When Story was acquired by Boston in 2022, his debut season was marred by injuries, leading some to question if the Red Sox had made the right move. But despite the setbacks, Story battled back, returning to form in 2023 and silencing the critics with a strong, consistent performance. His ability to hit for power, combined with his elite defense, made him one of the top shortstops in the league once again.
The decision to lock him in for the long term was met with widespread approval. Red Sox President of Baseball Operations, Chaim Bloom, spoke highly of Story’s impact on and off the field. “Trevor has proven time and time again that he’s not only one of the best shortstops in the game but also a leader in our clubhouse,” said Bloom. “This deal is a testament to the commitment we have in bringing sustained success to Boston, and Trevor is at the heart of that vision.”
As one of the game’s most respected shortstops, Story’s leadership extends beyond his athletic ability. His presence on the field and in the locker room has become integral to the Red Sox’s culture, and his new contract solidifies his place as one of the faces of the franchise for the next decade.
For Story, this contract is about more than just money; it’s about redemption and loyalty. After enduring a tough period of recovery and doubt, he is finally getting the validation he’s earned. “I’ve always loved this city, and now, to know that I’ll be a part of it for the rest of my career, it means everything to me,” he said.
The Red Sox have made a bold move, securing one of the game’s premier talents for the long haul. Story’s mega-deal will have major ramifications in the AL East, signaling Boston’s intent to remain competitive at the highest level.
Fenway Park will continue to host the powerful bat and unmatched grit of Trevor Story, and it’s clear: the story isn’t just about a player returning to form, but about his everlasting legacy in one of the most storied franchises in Major League Baseball.
