The San Francisco 49ers are rolling at 5-0, fresh off beating our defending champion Seattle Seahawks last weekend. Look, it stings to see a rival playing this well, especially after they handed us a loss. They’ve already knocked off three playoff teams from last season, proving they’re legit. But while the Niners are cooking, other teams across the league are straight up disappointing, like the Los Angeles Chargers and Houston Texans. We’ve even got six other NFL teams sitting with one win or fewer. With the trade deadline just a few weeks out, those struggling teams are gonna be sellers, and with all that draft capital, you know the 49ers are gonna be buyers.
The Niners’ Shopping List: Pass Rush and Perimeter Speed
The 49ers aren’t resting on their undefeated record, which is exactly why they’re so dangerous. They’ve got a couple of key needs they’re looking to address. First up, they want more depth in their pass rush. You can never have too many guys getting after the QB, right? Then, they’re looking for some help at wide receiver, especially with a need for speed on the perimeter because of injuries. So, who’s out there on these bad teams that could actually boost an already stacked San Francisco squad? Let’s dive into some of the names floating around.
Chargers Talent On The Block?
It looks like the Chargers might be one of those teams ready to unload some talent, and the 49ers are apparently eyeing a few of their guys. First, there’s Khalil Mack, the 35-year-old outside linebacker. He just signed an $18 million extension this offseason, but he’s already being talked about. Mack has 14 pressures this season with a 9.5 percent pass-rush win rate, according to PFF. He’s been healthy and is still a solid run defender, and you know he’d get a ton of one-on-one opportunities in San Francisco. Then there’s Chargers edge rusher Tuli Tuipulotu. He’s younger and would cost a heavier price, but the dude leads Los Angeles with 17 pressures and a 16.0 percent pass-rush win rate. He also has eight defensive stops this season, and last year was a breakout with 75 pressures and 13 sacks. He’s in the final year of his rookie deal, so he’s definitely a hot commodity.
For wide receiver help, the 49ers could look at Quentin Johnston. Honestly, his name isn’t exactly shining bright right now, and he wouldn’t come with a big price tag. He hasn’t been a good NFL receiver, and that $18 million fifth-year option is a big deterrent. But the 49ers need speed and perimeter help due to injuries, and maybe he’s just a low-cost option to provide that vertical threat alongside Demarcus Robinson and De’Zhaun Stribling when they return.
Other Intriguing Trade Targets
Beyond the Chargers, the 49ers are also looking at some more “outside-the-box” moves. They could be targeting 30-year-old Saints tight end Juwan Johnson. The 49ers have always wanted a second receiving threat at tight end, a role Kyle Juszczyk has basically filled. Johnson doesn’t have any more guaranteed money on his deal, which has one year left at $9.5 million, and with the Saints reeling at 1-4, he could be a solid trade option. And don’t forget about Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne. He’s 29, in the final year of his deal, and has been in trade rumors for a while now. This could be the year. He’s racked up 15 pressures, eight defensive stops, and a forced fumble so far this season.
So, the trade deadline is coming up in a few weeks, and it’s clear the 49ers are not content with just being 5-0. They’re looking to add even more talent, especially after what they did to us last weekend. We’ll be watching closely to see what moves they make, because any upgrades for them means a tougher road for everyone else in the NFC.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Niners Nation.
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