Insider: Niners should rethink spending big on a playmaker 🏈💸

Grant Cohn of Sports Illustrated argues the San Francisco 49ers should prioritize upgrading the offensive line over handing a big free-agent contract to Jauan Jennings, even as Brock Purdy looks for more weapons. Cohn contends that an improved line would better protect and sustain Purdy’s development, potentially offering more long-term value than a high-priced wide receiver.

Jennings, entering free agency after his two-year deal expired following the 41-6 NFC Divisional Round loss to Seattle, posted strong production for San Francisco. He led the team in receiving touchdowns, was second in receiving yards (643), and third in catches (55). The 2020 seventh-round pick is represented by super agent Drew Rosenhaus, which could influence his market.

Market projections for Jennings vary. Spotrac suggested a three-year contract with an annual value exceeding $22 million, while Parker Hurley of SI floated about $17-18 million per year as a more realistic range. Cohn, however, believes even a price above $15 million per season would be ill-advised for a player of Jennings’ profile.

Cohn argues the 49ers should redirect that money to an offensive lineman, especially given cap considerations tied to Aiyuk’s potential release. If Jennings departs, the team could use any cap relief to pursue a high-end No. 1 receiver later, but the model under Kyle Shanahan’s system remains to draft and develop alternative targets such as Ricky Pearsall and Kendrick Bourne alongside Christian McCaffrey and George Kittle.

On the offensive line, San Francisco faces questions beyond Trent Williams, who has one year left on his contract and may retire. PFF-ranked Williams and Colton McKivitz among the league’s top-10 tackles, with center Jake Brendel also delivering solid leverage. The 49ers are expected to target a guard via free agency or the 27th pick in the April draft, though they could explore a versatile lineman as well.

If they stick with the draft route, Mel Kiper Jr. has linked Caleb Lomu as Williams’ potential heir at No. 27, while Daniel Jeremiah has the 49ers targeting Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq. The team’s interior-line needs could steer them toward a veteran addition in free agency or a strategic first-round choice, depending on how cap space evolves.

This summary reflects Grant Cohn’s viewpoint as covered by Heavy Sports, noting the broader debate over how the 49ers should allocate resources around Brock Purdy. The decision will hinge on cap moves, market dynamics, and how San Francisco values immediate help versus long-term development.