49ers WR Jauan Jennings contract standoff sparks Steelers trade talks

Jauan Jennings wants a new deal or a trade before training camp, and the Steelers could make a move on the wide receiver if negotiations continue to stall.

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jauan Jennings wants a raise or a trade ahead of training camp, and the Pittsburgh Steelers, after nearly landing fellow Niners wideout Brandon Aiyuk, could opportunistically circle back on the veteran playmaker.

Sports Illustrated's Jack Markowski stated that after the two teams were previously "inches away" from finazling a trade for Aiyuk, Pittsburgh "should... keep close tabs" on Jennings' situation in San Francisco. The 49ers' top wide receiver turned 28 last week, and is set to earn $7.5 million in the final year of his two-year contract in 2025.

Minimal progress has been made toward Jennings' request for a pay raise, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter, who added, "If a new deal is not reached by the time training camp starts next week, Jennings plans to request a trade to a team willing to pay him."

Maskowski remarked that Pittsburgh "isn't as desperate for receiver help," as they were during their neogitations for Aiyuk, but stated, "If the situation goes sideways... the Steelers could pounce and add another quality option to their receiver room."

Pittsburgh's receiver group is currently anchored by former Seattle Seahawks standout DK Metcalf, but was reshaped when the team traded George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys on May 7. The roster move left an opening for a WR2, making Jennings an attractive option for the team if his negotiations in San Francisco go south.

In 2024, Jauan Jennings set career highs with 77 catches for 975 yards and six touchdowns, leading all 49ers wide receivers. With Deebo Samuel traded to Washington and Aiyuk's status uncertain due to injury, San Francisco risks entering the season extremely thin at wideout if Jennings decides to hold firm.

With the start of training camp looming, Jennings must decide whether to report to camp absent a new deal, and the 49ers must weigh his contract demands against team chemistry and on-field needs. Meanwhile, the Steelers, mindful of their recent near-miss with Aiyuk, will likely observe closely before deciding whether to make their move.