Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox recently explored potential trade scenarios as teams enter Week 2 of the 2025 NFL season, and he mentioned the San Francisco 49ers in two of them. One scenario has San Francisco considering moving on from a wide receiver, while another positions the team as a potential buyer at tight end.
Jauan Jennings uncertainty
Wide receiver Jauan Jennings suffered a shoulder injury on Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks, but early evaluations suggest he avoided a long-term setback. There's optimism that he could suit up this week against the New Orleans Saints.
Entering the last year of his deal, Jennings pushed for a new contract heading into training camp. However, the 49ers were unable to finalize an extension. Instead, the front office added incentives to his 2025 salary to increase his earning potential.
Although the team continues to work toward a long-term agreement to keep Jennings in the Bay Area, Knox believes a trade remains on the table, despite the 49ers insisting it won't happen.
"Until Jennings is signed to an extension, though, the impending 2026 free agent remains a potential bargaining chip—and not just because he requested a trade in the offseason," Knox wrote.
"Should 2024 first-round pick Ricky Pearsall prove to be a consistent playmaker, Jennings could be viewed as expendable once Brandon Aiyuk returns from injury. He proved himself as a starter last season and should intrigue receiver-needy teams."
According to Knox, an interested team could likely acquire Jennings for a 2026 fourth-round draft pick and a 2027 fifth-rounder.
Tight end help
The 49ers suffered another blow when star tight end George Kittle was placed on injured reserve this week with a hamstring injury, sidelining him for at least four games. In his absence, Jake Tonges stepped up against Seattle, recording three receptions for 15 yards and the game-winning touchdown from quarterback Brock Purdy.
Still, Knox suggests San Francisco could explore the trade market for another tight end—David Njoku of the Cleveland Browns. He names the 49ers and the Kansas City Chiefs as potential suitors.
Knox speculates that Njoku might be had for a conditional 2026 third-round pick, though Cleveland would likely wait until its playoff hopes fade or until receiving an offer too good to decline. Rookie Harold Fannin Jr., who impressed with seven catches for 63 yards in his debut, could make Njoku more expendable.
"Fannin caught seven catches for 63 yards in his NFL debut," Knox wrote. "Njoku was also involved (3 catches, 37 yards) against Cincinnati, and it's easy to see how Cleveland could benefit from using both in 12 personnel.
"However, Fannin's presence on a rookie contract should make the idea of trading Njoku a lot more palatable for the Browns—especially since the 2023 Pro Bowler should carry a premium price tag.
"The 29-year-old isn't an elite tight end, but he's a more proven playmaker than what most other franchises have at the position. An offer just below what the Pittsburgh Steelers paid for DK Metcalf this offseason might get a deal done."
However, with Kittle expected to return later this season and Tonges showing promise, the 49ers may be hesitant to make a significant move at the position.