After finishing with a disappointing 6–11 record in 2024, the San Francisco 49ers head into the 2025 season trying to maintain a championship-caliber roster while also managing a tightening salary cap.
How general manager John Lynch and company balance it all will have significant financial and competitive implications down the line.
The $265 million extension inked by quarterback Brock Purdy this offseason could also push the Niners to explore trades that would free up more cap space.
As it stands, the 49ers have just under $46 million in available cap, but they have far and away the most dead money in the NFL (over $93 million). Considering their current fiscal issues coupled with their current roster makeup, here are three potential trade candidates for the 49ers heading into training camp this summer:
Brandon Aiyuk (WR)
Getty49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk is one of our top trade candidates heading into the tea,’s 2025 camp.
Having signed a four-year, $120 million deal just six months ago, trading Brandon Aiyuk could provide definite financial relief for the Niners. However, he’s still rehabbing a serious knee injury, casting doubt on his immediate impact. Aiyuk tore his ACL and MCL in Week 7 last year, ending his season (he finished with 25 catches for 374 yards). The year prior, in 2023, he had 75 catches for 1,342 yards and seven scores, earning Second‑team All‑Pro honors.
Aiyuk’s recovery and timetable for return will absolutely and understandably affect his trade stock. But for some WR-needy teams, he could represent a high-upside acquisition. He’s a solid route‑runner and YAC specialist entering his prime, with an All‑Pro pedigree who is also under contract for the next several years. There could be some takers when he’s back at 100%.
Trent Williams (OT)
GettyTrent Williams of the 49ers is another trade candidate heading into the 2025 season.
Trent Williams remains one of the best offensive tackles in the NFL—but his massive contract ($21.1 million cap hit for 2025, highest among offensive linemen) could have the 49ers thinking about finding an out. Moving Williams could unlock payroll flexibility, albeit at the cost of elite protection for Purdy.
A 13-time Pro Bowler, Williams joined San Francisco in 2020. He has since served as the anchor for the left side. But he’s 37 years old and in the twilight of his career. A trade would add some future draft capital and free up cap space while also letting an aging player walk. Despite his age, though, Williams is still an attractive trade candidate. He’s a well-respected veteran who elevates play in the trenches and would be a valuable asset for teams — especially contenders — needing immediate reinforcement.
Yetur Gross-Matos (DE)
GettySan Francisco 49ers defensive lineman Yetur Gross-Matos.
Signed in 2024 on a two-year, $18 million deal, Yetur Gross-Matos had 4.0 sacks, six tackles-for-loss and seven QB hits in 11 games last season. With a $9.47 million cap hit for 2025 and the additions of Bryce Huff and rookie Mykel Williams, Gross-Matos may become expendable.
If traded or released, the 49ers could free up about $7.8 million in cap space while also clearing a spot for younger talent. His physical traits (6’6”, 270 pounds) are enticing, and teams are always in need of pass rush help. Two squads in the NFC North, the Chicago Bears and the Green Bay Packers, are teams that come to mind as potential trade partners.
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