With preseason football just around the corner, the San Francisco 49ers‘ strengths and weaknesses are becoming clearer by the day. While many of the rookie defenders are flashing at training camp to answer some of the question marks, there’s still a glaring position of need on offense. The Niners need more receiving threats, no way around it.
Trade Proposal for Terry McLaurin
Earlier this morning, The Athletic gave a solution to the 49ers’ need by putting out five realistic trade proposals for the Commanders‘ wide receiver Terry McLaurin. One mock trade was with the 49ers and was a straight-up swap: Terry McLaurin for Brandon Aiyuk.
49ers reporter Matt Barrows would go on to explain why the potential move works for both sides.
“It’s not so far-fetched considering this scenario was discussed a year ago when Aiyuk was the subject of a high-profile hold-in. Aiyuk had the Commanders at the top of possible trade destinations because of his relationship with, and admiration for, Jayden Daniels. The 49ers probably would have acquiesced to his request if McLaurin was part of a trade package, but the Commanders didn’t want to part with the receiver. A year later, would they reconsider? Now it’s McLaurin who’s causing a stir and whose feelings are hurt. While Aiyuk is coming off an Oct. 20 ACL tear and isn’t expected to be ready at the start of the season, he’s also two and a half years younger than McLaurin and has relationships throughout Commanders headquarters.”
All of the smoke is there for a potential trade. If the Commanders aren’t going to break the bank on Scary Terry, this very well could be their best option.
49ers Wide Receiver Problems
Looking at the Niners, the lack of healthy talent is particularly noticeable. Jauan Jennings has emerged as a quality wideout over the past couple of years, but is out with a nagging calf injury and also wants an extension. Brandon Aiyuk tore his knee last season and isn’t expected to return until October, at the earliest. One positive is that last year’s first-round pick, Ricky Pearsall, is flashing a lot in training camp, and many are expecting him to take a big step this season.
Still, there’s not much depth behind those three. Add in that there’s a good chance it takes a while for Aiyuk to return to look like his old self, and this team could have some serious issues in the pass-catching department.
Why the 49ers Should Make the Trade?
The clear hole at the wide receiver position is the top reason why the Niners should make this move. However, considering Aiyuk and the 49ers’ relationship has seemed to sour over the past 18 months, it lines up even more. Yes, Aiyuk is younger and will likely be cheaper than McLaurin, but he may never regain the same level of play he had before his injury.
This mock trade could lead to concerns about San Francisco having to give up the assets to acquire McLaurin, then double down and pay him as well. However, that argument sort of goes out the window if you’re doing a clean swap with Aiyuk. It will be more money, but the 49ers would be getting a healthy, ready-to-go wide receiver with a much better NFL resume.
Only time will tell if Scary Terry will stay in Washington, but if the contract issues persist, the 49ers need to give the Commanders a call.
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