Months after trading Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders, the San Francisco 49ers face another wide receiver dilemma. Veteran Jauan Jennings intends to formally request a trade unless he secures a new contract before training camp, as reported by ESPN.
Jennings, 28, had a standout 2024 season with 77 catches for 975 yards and six touchdowns, partially due to filling in for an injured Samuel. With a $7.5 million salary due for 2025 on the final year of his contract, while he is not likely to hold out of training camp without a new contract, he plans to seek a trade to a “team willing to pay him” if no agreement is reached with the 49ers.
Odds are that the 49ers will find a way to negotiate Jennings’ deal, especially after offloading some salary via Samuel’s trade. With Brandon Aiyuk recovering from a knee injury, Jennings is crucial to the team’s receiving corps, which will also be relying on second-year player Ricky Pearsall.
If talks stall, potential trade destinations for Jennings include:
Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders have revamped their offense this offseason but still lack depth at receiver. They could benefit from Jennings’ skills, giving quarterback Geno Smith another reliable option.
Miami Dolphins
After trading away tight end Jonnu Smith, the Dolphins may look to Jennings for added versatility, especially knowing his history with coach Mike McDaniel.
New York Jets
With a new quarterback in Justin Fields and limited depth at the receiver position, the Jets would benefit from Jennings’ talent.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers might consider Jennings as a more affordable option to enhance Aaron Rodgers’ arsenal, offering the versatility offensive coordinator Arthur Smith desires.
