General manager John Lynch doesn't feel as if the San Francisco 49ers need to scramble for a free-agent wide receiver.
It's a bit of an odd conclusion. After all, in the wake of trading Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders last March, and in light of Brandon Aiyuk's recovery from 2024's torn ACL and MCL, one would think another top-flight pass catcher would be a priority.
Oh, it also doesn't help free-agent offseason pickup, DeMarcus Robinson, is expected to be suspended to start the year in light of a DUI arrest.
But Lynch isn't caving to the idea of the Niners grabbing someone to immediately compete with incumbent wideouts, Jauan Jennings and Ricky Pearsall.
"I don't think we have to," Lynch told KNBR 680 last Friday. "Like I said, I think there's a lot of quality and a lot of competition, and you kind of let that play out. And if opportunity presents itself to get better, then we'll always be interested in that. But right now, we don't feel like we're in a situation where we have to."
And Aiyuk's recovery progress might hold the key.
John Lynch, 49ers must feel great about Brandon Aiyuk's recovery
Aiyuk is likely to land on the physically unable-to-perform (PUP) list to open up the regular season, which means he'd be out for at least the first four games of 2025.
If it was expected to be longer, likely in the case of more complications or an injury-recovery setback, then San Francisco would probably be a bit more aggressive in any search for a replacement, perhaps a veteran like Amari Cooper or Keenan Allen.
But the lack of attention there, echoed by Lynch's comments, suggests the 49ers are confident in Aiyuk's recovery.
"Brandon's tracking in a good way with his knee, and you've just got to kind of let that play out," Lynch added. "We're not going to put him out there until he's ready, but we're excited with our receiver group and where we're at."
Sure, words are words. But the inaction at the position speaks much louder.
When combining the two, it sure seems as if Lynch and the Niners are pleased with Aiyuk's progress and eventual impact this season.
Hat tip toDavid Bonilla of 49ers Webzone for the find and transcription.
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