Still, one NFL insider believes the 49ers could remain active in the wide receiver market—especially if injuries become a concern entering training camp. San Francisco battled through an injury-plagued 2025 campaign yet still managed to win 12 regular-season games and secure a playoff berth.
If a need emerges at wide receiver, Jason La Canfora believes the 49ers could become a realistic landing spot for Philadelphia Eagles star A.J. Brown.
"The 49ers, who at some point will part with awol receiver Brandon Aiyuk, have a very high payroll as it stands, and their cap space has been an issue, but even with Mike Evans there, one could make a case for Brown, especially with some of the recent injury with some of their top pass catchers," La Canfora wrote for SportsBoom.
It's worth noting that the 49ers currently have the most salary cap space in the NFL. However, much of that is likely earmarked for the future.
The Eagles are reportedly expected to move Brown before training camp, with the financial impact becoming more manageable after June 1.
La Canfora also identified the New England Patriots—who have been heavily linked to the receiver—and Kansas City Chiefs as potential trade destinations for Brown, while one personnel executive suggested the Jacksonville Jaguars as another possible fit. According to La Canfora, league executives believe Philadelphia could receive a 2027 draft pick and a player in exchange for the standout receiver.
"I still think it's done before camp," one general manager told La Canfora.
While the idea of pairing Brown with Evans in Kyle Shanahan's offense is intriguing, a trade to San Francisco still feels unlikely. The 49ers appear committed to their current receiving group after this offseason's overhaul. Of course, the NFL is often unpredictable.
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