The San Francisco 49ers have always had one of the more potent offenses since Kyle Shanahan took over as head coach. But this season featured a few more struggles than normal.
While the injuries were a big factor, the overall production of the offense wasn't as good as it could be, thanks to some question marks in the wide receiver room.
With the futures of Brandon Aiyuk and Jauan Jennings uncertain, and Ricky Pearsall's health being an issue, ESPN's Nick Wagoner is urging the 49ers to go out and add a difference-making wide receiver this offseason.
49ers urged to find new WR to replace Aiyuk, Jennings
"Find a difference-making wide receiver," Wagoner writes. "The 49ers are all but certain to move on from Brandon Aiyuk, Jauan Jennings is a free agent, and Ricky Pearsall has struggled to stay healthy. Don't be surprised if the Niners are in the mix for a big-name free agent or if they dedicate valuable draft resources to the position."
San Francisco has tried to build a strong wide receiver room, and when everyone is healthy and active, the trio of Aiyuk, Jennings, and Pearsall would've been enough to compete for a Super Bowl.
But, with Aiyuk's contract dispute with the 49ers after some discipline issues, and Jennings hitting free agency, the 49ers need to add a receiver in some capacity.
More: Why Brandon Aiyuk isn't playing tonight for 49ers in playoffs vs. Seahawks with contract dispute
Pearsall needs to be healthy next season, but even if he is, the team still needs at least one more wide receiver this offseason.
Whether it's a superstar in a trade, a top-tier free agent, or a highly drafted prospect, the 49ers need to find a way to bolster their offense this offseason.
Brock Purdy cannot be asked to field a Super Bowl offense with just Pearsall in the wide receiver room. Resources need to be spent on all of the reasons Wagoner highlighted.
While adding pass rusher help might be the top priority after how bad it was in 2025, the wide receiver room isn't far behind, especially if Jennings and Aiyuk are both off the roster next season.
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