Trade rumors have swirled around San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jauan Jennings in recent weeks. With the November 4 trade deadline approaching, some speculated that Jennings could be a potential trade candidate if the 49ers decided to sell.
However, head coach Kyle Shanahan quickly shut down that notion when asked on Wednesday whether Jennings might be on the move.
"I'd be very surprised if Jauan wasn't on our team throughout this year," Shanahan responded.
Jennings' season hasn't gone as planned. The 49ers receiver has just 18 catches for 212 yards and one touchdown—numbers that fall short of what he'd hoped to produce in a contract year. Injuries have played a significant role, as Jennings has battled setbacks like shoulder, ankle, and rib issues for much of the season.
Despite the setbacks, Jennings remains passionate about playing for San Francisco.
"I just love playing with this team, man," Jennings told reporters on Wednesday. "To go out there, every day, and see guys like [TE George] Kittle, Juice [FB Kyle Juszczyk], Mac 10 [QB Mac Jones] out here. When I saw D-Rob [WR Demarcus Robinson] after catching that pass (the two-point conversion against the Texans), man, it fires me up because we've got a lot of guys on this team who want to contribute, and can contribute, and just great players that make it fun to come to work every day."
Shanahan praised Jennings for his determination and toughness despite the physical toll of the season.
"Jauan has been really hurt all year," Shanahan said. "I think he's getting better. I think last week was a step in the right direction, but hopefully, he'll be better this week. Jauan has been compromised on a lot of things."
Running back Christian McCaffrey also commended Jennings' perseverance.
"He's been extremely tough," McCaffrey said. "Playing with injuries sucks—it's always tough. The hardest part is that nobody cares when you're out there on the field, and so, you just kind of have to deal with it. And he's done an exemplary job of doing that.
"And we all know what he's going through, all know what he's had to deal with, and so, for him to go out there and continue to put his best foot out there is inspiring. I love playing with a guy like that."
When asked how he's handled the injuries and whether they've affected his play, Jennings offered a straightforward response.
"I just go out there and I play the sport," Jennings said. "I go out there and do my job to the best of my abilities, and worry about the rest later.