Despite agreeing to trade Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders this weekend—a move set to become official on March 12—the San Francisco 49ers may struggle to enter serious discussions with the Jets.
By trading Samuel before June 1, the 49ers accelerated future money into a $31.55 million dead cap hit for 2025. According to OverTheCap.com, the team currently has about $34 million in cap space.
Adams, however, carries a hefty $35.64 million base salary for each of the next two seasons, making it nearly impossible for the 49ers to absorb his contract unless the Jets are willing to take on a portion of the salary as part of a deal.
Rapoport notes that if the Jets fail to find a trade partner, they are expected to release Adams. That scenario could allow the 49ers to pursue him—if interested—on a more team-friendly contract. However, the veteran receiver could also choose to reunite with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, depending on where he lands.
While some continue to link Rodgers to the 49ers, general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan are focused on securing a contract extension for their 25-year-old quarterback, Brock Purdy, and building the roster around him.
Over the weekend, Rapoport mentioned on NFL Network that the 49ers are prioritizing getting younger this offseason, which may have influenced their decision to part with Samuel.
NFL analyst Brian Baldinger echoed this sentiment in February, emphasizing that the 49ers should focus on lowering their roster's average age. Adding a 32-year-old receiver like Adams wouldn't align with that strategy.
"I just want young legs, guys that have a burst," Baldinger said. "I know Davante has these 10 different releases that he can win one-on-ones, and that's great. I just want to get younger, the way the Eagles got younger—draft and develop. I don't think you should fear that. I think that's the approach you have to take."
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