Is Jauan Jennings' time with the 49ers coming to an unexpected end? It seems like a heated sideline exchange, followed by whispers of a potential trade, has put the spotlight on the San Francisco 49ers wide receiver. Jennings, who was hoping for a new contract and then a trade, ultimately opted for an incentive-based deal, betting on himself in the upcoming season.
Unfortunately, injuries have plagued Jennings' availability. With Ricky Pearsall and Brandon Aiyuk also dealing with their own setbacks, the 49ers found themselves scrambling to get Kendrick Bourne on the field.
In a Week 6 game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Jennings had a single catch for a mere seven yards on three targets. This low target count was a stark contrast to his previous usage, with the last time he was targeted so few times being back in Week 13 of the 2023 season. Bourne, on the other hand, saw three targets in Week 2 against the New Orleans Saints, the very game he was brought back for due to the injuries within the receiving corps.
It's almost as if Bourne is stepping into the role Jennings could have been playing. The Buccaneers game also witnessed a heated exchange between Jennings and 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan. Shanahan described the conversation as “competitive,” but he didn’t elaborate, and Jennings remained tight-lipped as well. The speculation pointed towards Jennings' possible frustration with his role in the offense.
Former 49ers Hall of Fame quarterback Steve Young weighed in, saying, “If he’s not getting the calls... the last thing you want to do with Kyle (Shanahan) in my mind is go bitch and moan about it—especially publicly.”
But here's where it gets controversial... The situation seemed to be simmering down until reports surfaced that the New York Giants were inquiring about a trade for Jennings. While he was mentioned alongside other wide receivers like Jaylen Waddle and Jakobi Meyers, it didn't necessarily mean the 49ers were actively shopping him.
Rookie Jordan Watkins may get a chance to shine against the Atlanta Falcons, especially with Marquez Valdes-Scantling on the injured reserve. Watkins showed promise during the preseason, and now he has the opportunity to prove himself. This could give the 49ers a chance to see what their younger players can do, potentially making Jennings more available for a trade. It's important to remember Jennings' value in the locker room. Teammates and coaches often praise his toughness and blocking skills, making any decision about his future more complex than a simple depth chart adjustment.
With Watkins, Bourne, a returning Pearsall, and the eventual return of Aiyuk, Jennings' availability in a trade could increase, potentially allowing the 49ers to be proactive rather than reactive.
And this is the part most people miss... Jennings has played through injuries, including five broken ribs. Given all the recent speculation, would he be willing to push through these injuries if his time with the 49ers is, in fact, numbered?
What do you think? Do you believe Jennings will be traded? Do you think the 49ers should keep him? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
