49ers linked to veteran WR with off-field concerns

The San Francisco 49ers are widely expected to address the wide receiver position this offseason as they reshape the roster for 2026.

Brandon Aiyuk appears headed out after a rift with the organization, while Jauan Jennings, Kendrick Bourne, and Skyy Moore are all scheduled to become free agents. That potential turnover leaves San Francisco thin at a premium position in Kyle Shanahan's offense.

The 49ers have already been connected to veteran wideout Mike Evans. But what about a more complicated option?

49ers floated as potential landing spot for Stefon Diggs

Tyler Sullivan of CBS Sports recently examined the New England Patriots' situation with veteran receiver Stefon Diggs, whose roster status is far from clear.

Diggs carries a $26.5 million cap hit in each of the next two seasons. According to Sullivan, New England could clear $16.8 million in 2026 and $22.5 million in 2027 by releasing him before June 1.

Complicating matters further, Diggs recently appeared in court and pleaded not guilty to charges of felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery involving his personal chef. He is scheduled for a pre-trial hearing on April 1. That could certainly play into the Patriots' decision.

Given the circumstances, Diggs may not align with the type of addition the 49ers typically target. However, Sullivan still listed San Francisco as a logical landing spot if the Patriots move on — primarily because of the team's need at receiver.

"The 49ers are about to see Kendrick Bourne and Jauan Jennings become free agents this offseason," Sullivan wrote. "The team is also going to move on from Brandon Aiyuk in some capacity, which leaves the cupboard bare at the receiver position outside of Ricky Pearsall and Demarcus Robinson.

"With $41.2 million in projected space, Diggs is a logical veteran target for Kyle Shanahan's offense, and the receiver does fit their win-now window as they look to compete for a Super Bowl appearance once the rest of the roster gets fully healthy."

Production vs. risk

Age is another factor. Diggs (6-0, 191) is 32 and entering his 12th NFL season. He remains productive, however, coming off a 2025 campaign in which he totaled 85 receptions for 1,013 yards and four touchdowns. He has eclipsed 1,000 receiving yards in seven of the past eight seasons, underscoring his consistent productivity.

For a 49ers team that will likely seek a veteran addition at wide receiver, Diggs' résumé makes him a solid fit. However, San Francisco might not be comfortable with the financial commitment and off-field concerns.

Sullivan also named the Denver Broncos, Tennessee Titans, Los Angeles Chargers, and Pittsburgh Steelers as potential suitors if Diggs becomes available.