San Francisco’s receiver depth chart has undergone a number of changes so far this offseason. More could be coming in the form of a Brandon Aiyuk trade or release, though nothing has been finalized on that front.
With Aiyuk not expected to be back in the fold and Jauan Jennings destined to sign elsewhere in free agency, the 49ers will be led at the WR spot by Mike Evans and Christian Kirk in 2026. Evans’ pact essentially consists of a one-year commitment in terms of guaranteed money, while Kirk’s only covers next season. Taking a wideout in next week’s draft would thus be a feasible approach on the part of general manager John Lynch and Co.
“I don’t know about early, but we’re certainly in the business of adding good players,” Lynch said (via ESPN’s Nick Wagoner) when asked about adding a rookie receiver. “I think at that position, the way these guys [are getting paid], it’s probably healthy business to try to add them as much as you can in these drafts.”
The 49ers have veteran Demarcus Robinson in place in addition to Evans and Kirk, but otherwise their WR depth chart is lacking in experience. Ricky Pearsall, Jordan Watkins and Jacob Cowing are among the younger players in the fold for San Francisco. Making another draft investment would add further depth to the mix while allowing for one or both of Evans and Kirk to be replaced in 2027.
The 49ers’ top selection is No. 27. They are one of several teams which has hosted Denzel Boston on a pre-draft visit, although the Washington product may not be on the board by that point given the pre-draft buzz surrounding him. San Francisco’s other options at this point consist of a second-round pick and four in the fourth round. Using one of those selections on a wideout could allow the team to take advantage of the perceived depth at the position while leaving round one for more immediate roster needs.
The Bills of the NFC. Great teams & coaches, but just can’t hoist the Lombardi. I wonder if the bosses are thinking of dumping Kyle like the Bulls did w/ Sean McDermott? Or trade him, like TB did for Gruden.
I’ll wait for the update where Terrell Owens announces he’s considering a comeback 🙂
2 or 3 years ago they had a chance for that when the WR room was banged up and they should have done it. They weren’t going anywhere that year so why not do it just for the fun of it. Could have been the 1st HOF’er to play in a game.
I have a feeling that all 32 teams will be drafting a WR this year. Dane Brugler listed 41 with a round 7 or higher grade. Good guess for Mr. Irrelevant too.
Just bring back Third and Jauan for another year. He’s Purdy’s go to guy and he’s tough as nails
They have already spent that money on Evans and Kirk. He out-priced himself and apparently isn’t budging from his asking price.
Are the Niners going to use this draft to deal Aiyuk somewhere or a post June casualty?
They will trade if they can!
It will be post June 1st release because nobody is going to trade for that contract along with the headcase that he is. They would rather sign him to a team friendly deal.
This is very obvious since Evans and Kirk could both be gone next season.