The San Francisco 49ers are reportedly working on a potential deal to trade starting tackle Trent Brown to the New England Patriots, according to a report from Pro Football Talk.
Patriots, 49ers are talking about a possible trade for San Fran OT Trent Brown, per source.
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) April 27, 2018
The 49ers added Notre Dame tackle Mike McGlinchey with their ninth-overall pick on Thursday night. Head coach Kyle Shanahan stated that McGlinchey would play right tackle, the same position as Brown.
Brown, who has been with the 49ers for three seasons, was selected by the team in the seventh round of the 2015 NFL Draft. He has played in 31 games with the 49ers and started all but three of those appearances.
Brown injured his shoulder during practice on Thanksgiving Day last year. While he came back and played against the Chicago Bears during Week 13, the injury did not go away. Brown missed the final four games of the season and landed on injured reserve.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters on Thursday that Brown is expected to be fully recovered by training camp in late-July. Brown is entering the final year of his rookie contract.
Rumors surfaced on Thursday of a potential trade involving Brown. However, it was initially reported by Chance Dickman of KSBY-TV as a possible deal between the 49ers and Denver Broncos.
Tony Pauline of Draft Analyst later stated that Brown reported to the offseason program out of shape and the 49ers have concerns about his recovery, which may have contributed to decision to select McGlinchey.
While the 49ers claimed not to be in trade talks for Brown, Lynch was asked if they would be open to trading the veteran tackle.
"You know, you never say never," he answered. "Right now, we're pleased to have great competition at that spot."
H/T to Patrick Tulini for the find.