With speculation growing that the relationship between the San Francisco 49ers and wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk may be nearing its end, early 2026 mock drafts are beginning to focus on potential replacements for the former first-round pick.
Aiyuk is still recovering from the ACL and MCL injuries he suffered last season. While the 49ers remain hopeful he'll return to the field this year, many question whether his future in red and gold is already sealed. San Francisco's decision in July to void his guaranteed money for next season only fueled expectations of a looming split.
If the partnership does indeed unravel, CBS Sports' Ryan Wilson believes he has identified a worthy successor. In his latest 2026 mock draft, Wilson projects the 49ers to select Washington wide receiver Denzel Boston with the No. 24 overall pick. Boston, a 6-foot-4, 210-pound target, checks many boxes for a team potentially preparing to replace a star playmaker.
"A big, physical WR with a massive catch radius, contested-catch ability, and the speed to separate quickly and hit top-end velocity in 2–3 steps," Wilson wrote. "Boston is an effective route runner at all three levels, will run through arm tackles in space, and can outmuscle defenders in the red zone."
Wilson projects Boston as the fourth receiver off the board. The Huskies standout has produced 56 receptions for 755 yards and 10 touchdowns this season, per Sports Reference. Over the past two years, he's totaled 119 catches, 1,589 yards, and 19 touchdowns.
"While primarily an outside threat, his size, strength, and hands make him a potential matchup problem in the slot, too," Wilson continued. "Added bonus: he's a legit threat as a punt returner."
If the 49ers do move on from Aiyuk, they may prioritize adding a big-bodied playmaker like Boston in the 2026 NFL Draft.