The San Francisco 49ers have already made a significant move to strengthen their defense, acquiring three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle DeForest Buckner. But with the NFL trade deadline approaching on Nov. 10, the team could still look to improve its offense.
San Francisco holds a two-game lead in the NFC West, but the Seattle Seahawks remain a threat, and the Los Angeles Rams could become more competitive as the season progresses. Adding another wide receiver could help the 49ers maintain their position and provide insurance for a group that has dealt with injuries for months.
The 49ers are reportedly exploring options at the position. Here are five potential trade targets who could make sense before the deadline.
## Josh Downs, Indianapolis Colts
Josh Downs could be an attainable option if the Indianapolis Colts decide to move players before the deadline. Although speculation has surrounded other Colts, including running back Jonathan Taylor, Downs may be more likely to be traded because he is playing on an expiring contract.
The 25-year-old is not necessarily a star, but he has shown that he can contribute when healthy. His ability to work from the slot could make him a useful fit in San Francisco’s offense, especially as the team looks for additional depth during the second half of the season.
A trade for Downs would give the 49ers another reliable option in the passing game without requiring them to pursue a high-profile player. His age and experience could also make him a practical addition for a team trying to stay competitive in a tight division race.
## Quentin Johnston, Los Angeles Chargers
Quentin Johnston was selected in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, but he has yet to consistently meet expectations. If the Los Angeles Chargers decide their season is not going as planned and begin moving players, the 25-year-old could be available.
There would be some financial risk for San Francisco. The Chargers have exercised Johnston’s fifth-year option, which is valued at $16.4 million for next season. That commitment would need to be weighed alongside his potential and his performance so far.
Still, Johnston has the physical tools associated with a first-round pick. If 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan could help him make better use of his talent, Johnston might provide a significant boost at a reasonable trade cost. The move would be a bet on his potential rather than a guarantee of immediate production.
## Jauan Jennings, Minnesota Vikings
Jauan Jennings is a familiar name in San Francisco. The 49ers selected him in the seventh round of the 2020 NFL Draft, and he spent five seasons with the team before leaving in the offseason.
Jennings signed a one-year, $8 million contract with the Minnesota Vikings. He has reportedly seen limited use in Minnesota during the 2026 season, making him a possible trade candidate before Nov. 10.
A return to the 49ers could offer an easy path to familiarity for both the player and the team. San Francisco already knows what Jennings can bring, and he could provide additional depth without requiring the offense to build around an unfamiliar skill set. If Minnesota is willing to move him for a modest price, he could be one of the more straightforward options on this list.
## Calvin Ridley, Tennessee Titans
The 1-6 Tennessee Titans could have reason to consider selling before the trade deadline. Calvin Ridley, an eight-year veteran, has been mentioned as a player who could be moved.
When healthy, Ridley has demonstrated the ability to make a major difference. He is a three-time receiver with more than 1,000 receiving yards in a season, giving him a track record that could appeal to a contender seeking a proven target.
The financial details would be important. Ridley is owed $29.7 million in 2027, a substantial commitment. However, San Francisco could potentially acquire him at an affordable trade price if the Titans are motivated to move some of that salary off their books. The 49ers would need to assess both the cost and his health before deciding whether he is the right fit.
## Chris Godwin, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Chris Godwin is another veteran who could be available if the Tampa Bay Buccaneers decide to make changes. The 10-year veteran has been connected to trade speculation and may not be part of the team’s long-term plans.
Godwin is no longer at the peak of his career, but he could still help San Francisco during the second half of the season. His experience would give the 49ers another option in a receiving group that has had to manage injuries and changing personnel.
There is also a potential contract safeguard: if the move did not work out, San Francisco could choose not to exercise Godwin’s club option for next season. That flexibility could make him a more manageable short-term addition than a player tied to a longer commitment.
## A deadline decision for San Francisco
The 49ers have already addressed their defensive line by bringing back Buckner, but their receiver depth may still warrant attention. Downs offers slot ability, Johnston brings first-round potential, Jennings knows the organization, Ridley has a proven record of high production, and Godwin brings extensive experience.
Each option comes with different financial and performance considerations. San Francisco’s decision will depend on the price, the player’s health, and the team’s assessment of its needs for the stretch run. With the NFC West race still demanding attention, adding the right receiver before Nov. 10 could give the 49ers another way to strengthen their offense.
