The NFL Draft is here, and it hasn’t disappointed. There were plenty of surprise picks in the first round, with more to follow on Day 2. For the San Francisco 49ers, their move could be a signal for what’s next.
San Francisco is focusing on the draft, but its strategy could signal focus and preparation for another move. That and more in today’s 49ers news!
San Francisco 49ers News Today
49ers Take Florida WR Ricky Pearsall 31st Overall
They had to wait all night, but the 49ers made their pick, taking Florida’s Ricky Pearsall. The move came as one of the bigger shocks of the night, especially considering he had little first-round hype. Pro Football Network’s Consensus Mock Draft had him as late as 79th overall in the third round.
GOT MY LID!!!!! pic.twitter.com/Abp629z4TE
— Ricky Pearsall Jr. (@S1ickSzn) April 26, 2024
According to head coach Kyle Shanahan, wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk texted both him and general manager John Lynch following the pick. “Fire Pick, can’t lie,” said Aiyuk, who played with Pearsall at Arizona State
READ MORE: 2024 NFL Draft Tracker With Grades
Does Drafting Pearsall Signal a Brandon Aiyuk Trade?
Another factor in taking Pearsall is the impending decision on Aiyuk, who has been the center of constant trade rumors. While trade talks have grown frequent — yet unfulfilled — taking a wide receiver in Round 1 does nothing besides put fuel to the fire.
It had already been reported by NFL insider and longtime Bay Area columnist Michael Silver of The San Francisco Chronicle that an Aiyuk trade is very much at play. Going into 2024, Aiyuk is in the last year of his deal and is looking for a major extension.
There’s also Deebo Samuel, who has two years remaining on his deal. While the trade talk hasn’t been as strong for Samuel, there’s been plenty of noise there, too.
Some landing spots for Aiyuk, according to Pro Football Network’s Lorenzo Reyna, include the Las Vegas Raiders, Washington Commanders, and New York Patriots.
CONTINUE READING: Does Ricky Pearsall’s Selection Signal a Brandon Aiyuk Trade?
C.J. Stroud Devastated in Live Reaction to Pearsall Pick
While the Pearsall pick was a surprise to some, he certainly has his fans. On a live reaction show featuring both Micah Parsons and C.J. Stroud, there was a strong reaction to the Pearsall pick.
"Bro. He’s elite … I wanted him bad"
49ers fans are going to love CJ Stroud's reaction to them drafting Florida WR Ricky Pearsall pic.twitter.com/ttFXmHLEsE
— B/R Gridiron (@brgridiron) April 26, 2024
“Bro. He’s elite … I wanted him bad,” said the Houston Texans’ quarterback. “How was he even on their radar?”
“When I watch him … his last year, he put it together. I don’t know, it’s like Tank [Dell], it’s everything combined.”
KEEP READING: Who Is Ricky Pearsall? Height, Weight, Age, and More
Looking for everything you need surrounding the 2024 NFL Draft? Make sure to check out the latest draft results, overall team grades, and updated best remaining players available at every position!