The legal tampering period begins in five days as free agency in the NFL kicks off. The San Francisco 49ers are in a complete remodel of their wide receiver room. The top three options in 2023 (Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk, and Jauan Jennings) could all be in different uniforms, leaving Ricky Pearsall as the de facto leader of the room. Last season, the 49ers’ offense performed admirably, but was forced to give meaningful snaps to Russell Gage, Marquez Valdez-Scantling, and Malik Turner at times.
The 49ers current room is Pearsall, Jacob Cowing, Demarcus Robinson, Jordan Watkins, and….
Needless to say, the 49ers will add in free agency and the NFL Draft.
Here are three options to add that are under the radar and won’t break the bank. All projections are from Spotrac.com.
Calvin Austin, Pittsburgh, Current AAV: $1,041,085, Projected AAV: $4,873,855
The former fourth-round pick has settled nicely into his role as a speedy, slot receiver with Special Teams experience. 2024 was Austin’s finest season as a professional with 36 receptions, 548 yards, and four touchdowns on 593 snaps. This season with Aaron Rodgers, Austin added 372 yards on 31 receptions and three touchdowns.
If the 49ers are parting ways with Skyy Moore, Austin is someone who can take snaps immediately and return kicks. From the slot, the quick slot receiver can cause mismatches down the field and win in short areas against linebackers as a reliable target short or close to the sticks.
Jalen Nailor, Minnesota, Current AAV: $960,165, Projected AAV: $4,734, 329
Minnesota’s passing game was a mess in 2025. J.J. McCarthy struggled and got injured. The Vikings started Carson Wentz and Max Brosmer last season at points. While McCarthy couldn’t connect with Justin Jefferson or Jordan Addison, it was Jalen Nailor who turned heads as a receiver. On 653 snaps, Nailor caught 29 passes for 444 yards and four touchdowns. Nailor was recently linked to the Niners.
The former sixth-round pick has a knack for the end zone, with 10 total touchdowns over the last two seasons. It’s natural for Minnesota to choose to develop and work with Addison, given his draft investment. Still, Nailor could be on the verge of breaking out if given the right opportunity.
Marquise Brown, Kansas City, Current AAV: $7,000,000, Projected AAV: $5,521,415
The Chiefs’ offense was rough in 2025. Brown had a prime opportunity in 2025 with Rashee Rice’s injury and the inconsistency of Xavier Worthy to put a hold on the top receiver position. Unfortunately, his involvement in the offense fluctuated as the Chiefs’ passing offense was out of sorts all season.
Brown is still 28 and has plenty left in the tank as a route runner and downfield threat. After starting only six games and playing 49.51% of the snaps (551 snaps), Brown finished with a modest line of 49 receptions, 584 yards, and five touchdowns. His price tag should be low, but the 49ers could get serious bang for their buck with more involvement.
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