The San Francisco 49ers’ offseason took an unexpected turn Monday, July 14, when wide receiver Jauan Jennings dropped a bombshell: new contract or trade me. After his breakout 2024 campaign, the veteran receiver isn’t content with his current deal. With the 49ers facing a tough decision, several teams could benefit from adding a proven target who just posted career-high numbers.
Where Could Jauan Jennings Land if San Francisco Moves On?
The 49ers faced plenty of adversity in 2024 following their Super Bowl LVIII loss to Kansas City. Numerous injuries plagued the roster throughout the season, but Jennings stepped up when it mattered most. He became Brock Purdy’s go-to guy outside George Kittle, establishing himself as a legitimate WR1 option.
A career day for JJ. Watch all 11 Jauan Jennings catches from his 175-yard, 3-TD game.
Next up, #NEvsSF on FOX pic.twitter.com/rtCd7cdfJH
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) September 23, 2024
After sitting out his rookie season, Jennings spent three years in a supporting role before everything clicked in 2024. His 975 receiving yards and six touchdowns represent a massive leap forward. Meanwhile, his current contract carries just a $4.258 million cap hit, with the remainder spread across four void years. That bargain deal explains why he’s pushing for something better.
Jennings will likely target around $15 million annually, similar to Cooper Kupp’s deal with the Seattle Seahawks. If the 49ers decide to trade him, these five destinations make the most sense for both sides.
1) Las Vegas Raiders
The Las Vegas Raiders offer Jennings the most straightforward path to WR1 status, though he’d need to beat out Jakobi Meyers first. Geno Smith’s arrival signals the Raiders want to build a competitive foundation while identifying their core players during this rebuild phase.
Pete Carroll’s philosophy emphasizes effort and physicality, defining Jennings’ game approach. The Raiders might be most willing to pay him like a valid number one receiver, potentially approaching $20 million annually.
2) Los Angeles Chargers
Jennings could complete a well-rounded receiving group for Justin Herbert and the Los Angeles Chargers. His bigger frame would complement Ladd McConkey, who works better in the slot with his lighter build. Herbert needs that contested-catch specialist, and Jennings fits perfectly.
With Tre Harris still unsigned and creating roster drama, Jennings brings reliability that Quentin Johnston and Mike Williams can’t match at this stage of their careers. He’d immediately become Herbert’s most dependable target outside the slot.
3) Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers already have DK Metcalf, who shares some similarities with Jennings but is different enough to coexist effectively. Aaron Rodgers needs trustworthy options for what could be his final season, and Jennings excels in crucial situations like third downs and red-zone targets.
George Pickens’ departure left a significant void that Calvin Austin III and Robert Woods have yet to fill. At 28 years old, Jennings would give the Steelers a cost-effective solution under $20 million annually.
4) Buffalo Bills
Buffalo Bills general manager Brandon Beane hasn’t prioritized receiver spending. Still, Jennings wouldn’t break the bank while fitting Josh Allen’s preferences perfectly. Allen loves targeting bigger receivers downfield, precisely how Purdy used Jennings throughout 2024.
Purdy to Jauan Jennings! Ridiculous on both ends.
📺: #NEvsSF on FOX
📱: https://t.co/waVpO909ge pic.twitter.com/SJ2wMenYOU— NFL (@NFL) September 29, 2024
The connection between Allen and Jennings could mirror what worked so well in San Francisco, giving Buffalo another reliable weapon in their championship pursuit.
5) New England Patriots
Drake Maye enters his second NFL season needing to prove he can be consistent, and the New England Patriots added veteran Stefon Diggs. But why stop there? Jennings fits their budget while trending upward, offering a clear upgrade over DeMario Douglas and Mack Hollins.
Adding another proven target would give Maye more options to work with as he develops, potentially accelerating the young quarterback’s growth in a crucial season.
