Heading into the 2025 NFL season, the San Francisco 49ers are a major question mark. After making it all the way to the Super Bowl just two years ago, they missed the playoffs last season.
While the 49ers lost quite a few key players during the offseason, they were also able to lock up both Brock Purdy and George Kittle to long-term deals. Now, the question becomes, is the roster set heading into the upcoming campaign?
Adding more offensive firepower could be in the cards for San Francisco. If John Lynch is interested in making an aggressive move, one has been suggested.
Mike Kadlick of Sports Illustrated has named the 49ers as one of the best potential trade destinations for Washington Commanders star wide receiver Terry McLaurin.
He noted that making a move for McLaurin would help replace the loss of Deebo Samuel, who was traded by San Francisco to the Commanders earlier this offseason.
"After sending wide receiver Deebo Samuel to Washington earlier this offseason, perhaps the 49ers can get some pass-catching help back in a follow-up deal for McLaurin," Kadlick wrote.
"San Francisco enters 2025 with star Brandon Aiyuk returning from ACL surgery and former first-round pick Ricky Pearsall hopeful to make a year-two jump—but could use some additional help for their newly extended quarterback in Brock Purdy. The 49ers currently have the third-most cap space in the NFL according to Spotrac, and could reasonably meet the 29-year-old's asking price."
McLaurin has been one of the most underrated wide receivers in the NFL for years. He is coming off of another productive season in 2024.
Last season with Washington, McLaurin racked up 82 receptions for 1,096 yards and 13 touchdowns. He was also able to play in all 17 regular season games for the fourth year in a row.
Adding McLaurin alongside of Brandon Aiyuk and Kittle would give Purdy three elite weapons to work with. He's 29 years old, which should give him a few more good years playing at a prime level.
Making a move for McLaurin would not come cheap. However, he could be the piece that helps power the 49ers back into the playoffs. Purdy would be a big winner as well.
Expect to continue hearing rumors surrounding McLaurin heading towards the start of the 2025 season. It would not be shocking to see San Francisco connected to him again at some point.
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