The San Francisco 49ers are likely to cut ties with Brandon Aiyuk this upcoming offseason, after his guarantees for the 2026 season were waived by the 49ers.
With a future in San Francisco unlikely, the 49ers' plan at wide receiver has to change. Adding on that Jauan Jennings might depart in free agency, the wide receiver position becomes a big need for San Francisco in the offseason.
Fortunately, as Jordan Reid of ESPN highlights, two receivers would be great fits at the back end of the first round in the 2026 NFL Draft. Those two receivers are a Texas A&M receiver and a Louisville receiver who are great after the catch.
49ers linked to two first-round WRs to replace Brandon Aiyuk
"One common trait the Niners look for in wide receiver prospects is the ability to pick up yards after the catch." Reid writes. "And that means KC Concepcion (Texas A&M) and Chris Bell (Louisville) would be two realistic options at the back end of Round 1."
With the 49ers potentially eyeing yards after the catch, KC Concepcion and Chris Bell would be great options for San Francisco at the end of the first round.
Concepcion has 423 yards after the catch to go with his season totals of 57 receptions for 886 yards and nine touchdowns, along with eight rushing attempts for 63 yards and a touchdown.
More: 49ers to compete with Bills for top WR prospects amid Brandon Aiyuk, Keon Coleman uncertainty
Bell has 378 yards after the catch, along with season totals of 72 receptions for 917 yards and six touchdowns. The Louisville wide receiver is a quality option for the 49ers and will likely be available at the end of the first round.
San Francisco will need wide receiver help this offseason, and if they choose to take one in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, then Concepcion or Bell would be fantastic options for Kyle Shanahan to replace Aiyuk's spot on the roster.
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