The San Francisco 49ers once again entered the NFL postseason with Super Bowl expectations, but the rash of injuries to their key players finally caught up with them against the Seattle Seahawks on Saturday. They’ll enter the offseason with questions to answer regarding both their coaching staff and roster, particularly at the wide receiver position.
Three 49ers Players Who May Not Return In 2026
While stars like Brock Purdy, Christian McCaffrey, and Nick Bosa remain foundational pieces, several complementary players face uncertain futures. Here are three 49ers who may not return in 2026 as San Francisco evaluates how to retool for another championship push.
Jauan Jennings – WR
Wide receiver Jauan Jennings has carved out a unique role in Kyle Shanahan’s offense since joining the 49ers in 2020. Known for his physicality, clutch third-down catches, and willingness to block, Jennings has long been a favorite of both coaches and teammates.
Jennings’ value to San Francisco is undeniable, but his contract status complicates matters. He is set to hit free agency in 2026, and his steady production could make him an attractive option for receiver-needy teams willing to offer a larger role and a bigger contract. With the 49ers already allocating significant resources to their offensive stars and younger receivers pushing for snaps, retaining Jennings at market value may be a luxury the team cannot afford.
Jordan Elliott – DL
Defensive lineman Jordan Elliott has been a rotational presence along the 49ers’ interior defensive line, contributing depth and flexibility in both run defense and pass-rush packages. A former third-round pick, Elliott has seen fluctuating snap counts throughout his tenure in San Francisco, often serving as a complementary piece rather than a foundational starter.
During the 2025 season, Elliott continued in that rotational role, though he was able to rack up the second-most tackles of any defensive lineman on San Francisco’s roster. But with the 49ers consistently investing premium resources into the defensive front, Elliott now finds himself in a crowded position group with younger and more explosive options competing for snaps.
San Francisco may choose to let him walk in free agency, opting instead to prioritize cap space for higher-impact defenders or draft investments.
Kendrick Bourne — Wide Receiver
Kendrick Bourne returned to San Francisco with familiarity in the system and a reputation as a reliable contributor. During the 2025 season, Bourne played a situational role in the 49ers’ receiver rotation, and his 37 catches were the second-most of any wide receiver on the team.
However, Bourne’s future with the team could be coming to an end. At this stage of his career, Bourne profiles more as a depth receiver than a long-term solution, and the 49ers are likely to revamp their WR room with guys like Bourne, Jennings, and even Brandon Aiyuk facing major questions about their futures with the team.
Given the team’s ongoing efforts to get younger and more cost-efficient at receiver, Bourne could be among the players squeezed out as San Francisco reshapes its offensive depth chart for 2026.
