The San Francisco 49ers are expected to keep wide receiver Jauan Jennings on the roster for the 2025 season, despite trade rumors circulating earlier this summer. The situation has garnered attention as Jennings reportedly desires a new contract or a trade, yet the team appears unwilling to part ways with their starting receiver as training camp approaches.
Concerns over the health of fellow wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, who is still recovering from ACL and MCL tears suffered in October 2024, have made the 49ers’ depth at the position a priority. This context factors heavily into the team’s decision to retain Jennings rather than entertain trade offers.
Wide Receiver Depth Tested as Injuries Impact Key Players
San Francisco’s receiving corps is facing challenges following the March trade of Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders. Additionally, 2024 first-round pick Ricky Pearsall, expected to take on a larger role, began training camp on the Active/Physically Unable to Perform list due to a hamstring injury incurred earlier in the offseason.
Jennings, who signed a two-year contract in 2024 worth up to $15.4 million, is entering the final year of that deal, with a $7.5 million payout set for the upcoming season. His on-field production last year was impressive, with a career-high 77 receptions totaling 975 yards and six touchdowns.
Jennings Poised to Continue as a Starter for 49ers
With Aiyuk’s uncertain availability, the 49ers are counting on Jennings to maintain his role as a primary receiving option alongside Pearsall. Although Jennings has voiced a desire for a contract extension or a trade to explore other opportunities, the 49ers’ management seems committed to keeping him as a key contributor to the offense.
“wants a new contract or a trade.” —Adam Schefter, ESPN
According to Vic Tafur of The Athletic, the likelihood of a trade involving Jennings is low at this point, underscoring the team’s intent to preserve meaningful wide receiver depth heading into the new season.
The Impact of Retaining Jennings on the 49ers’ 2025 Outlook
Keeping Jennings helps the 49ers mitigate risks associated with Aiyuk’s recovery timeline while maintaining continuity in their passing attack. As the team addresses roster uncertainties created by injuries and previous trades, Jennings’s experience and productivity provide stability during a pivotal offseason phase.
Looking ahead, the 49ers‘ decisions around Jennings and receiver health could shape their offensive strategy for 2025, influencing both player roles and overall team performance as the season unfolds.