SANTA CLARA, Calif. – The San Francisco 49ers are facing big changes in their wide receiver lineup. Their talented group, which once shined with 2,785 yards and 18 touchdowns, could be entirely different by spring.
Recent reports reveal that Brandon Aiyuk, absent from the team for 13 months, has missed crucial meetings. This prompted the 49ers to void his guaranteed money for 2026, suggesting he might part ways with the team soon. Just 15 months ago, Aiyuk signed a significant four-year contract extension.
Tight end George Kittle hinted at Aiyuk’s uncertain status after the team’s win over the Arizona Cardinals. He noted that the offense was healthy, even though Aiyuk was still sidelined.
Aiyuk had a breakout season two years ago, racking up a career-high 1,342 receiving yards. But after the excitement of that season, contract disputes marred his relationship with the team. Despite negotiating a deal, Aiyuk missed most of the preseason and suffered a knee injury that has kept him out of practice since.
This scenario is not new for the 49ers. Deebo Samuel faced similar challenges after a standout 2021 season, leading to a dramatic contract negotiation and eventually a trade to the Washington Commanders.
Last season, Aiyuk’s injury left the spotlight on Jauan Jennings, who stepped up as the leading receiver with 975 yards and six touchdowns. Yet, after failing to secure a long-term deal during the offseason, Jennings also faced setbacks with injuries.
Currently, the 49ers’ only widely set contracts for next season belong to Ricky Pearsall, Demarcus Robinson, Jacob Cowing, and rookie Jordan Watkins. Most of these players have faced significant time on the bench due to injuries. Pearsall had a rocky season, battling a knee injury, while Watkins struggled with a high-ankle sprain.
Furthermore, Robinson, who missed the first three games of the season due to a suspension, has yet to make a significant impact.
Given their current challenges, expect the 49ers to reload their receiver lineup this offseason. According to Dane Brugler from The Athletic, this draft class boasts an impressive pool of talent, with seven wide receivers ranked in the top 50, including six in the top 32.
Historically, the 49ers have often invested in wide receivers early in the draft. Since coach Kyle Shanahan took the helm in 2017, they’ve picked a receiver in the first or second round multiple times. The only other position receiving more early picks has been the defensive line, which also needs attention after struggling this season.
With only 12 sacks in 11 games, the 49ers will likely focus on enhancing both their receiving corps and defensive line come draft time. As they seek to revitalize their roster, these changes could alter the team’s dynamics heading into next season.
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