Report: 49ers considering questionable move during first round of 2024 NFL Draft
NFL insider Dianna Russini reported on Thursday that the 49ers are trying to move up in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, a potential move that could cost them dearly.
Russini reports that San Francisco has discussed trading either wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk or Deebo Samuel "in an effort to move up in the first round."
Either decision would be a massive blow to the Niners' offense, regardless of who they acquire in the draft.
Per ESPN Analytics, Aiyuk was graded as the best wide receiver in football last season, ranking first in "catch" grade (97 out of 100) and tied for eighth in his ability to get open (81).
Meanwhile, Samuel received ESPN's top grade for yards after the catch (85).
Aiyuk finished last season with 75 receptions for 1,342 yards, an outstanding 17.9 yards per catch, and seven touchdowns. Samuel had 60 receptions, 892 yards and seven touchdowns while also adding 37 carries for 225 yards and five rushing touchdowns.
Both are integral parts of San Francisco's offense around quarterback Brock Purdy, and there's no guarantee whoever the team selects in the event Aiyuk or Samuels is traded will be better as a pro.
The 49ers should only seriously consider a trade if they don't believe they can re-sign Aiyuk to a long-term deal, as he is entering the final year of his rookie contract.
In that instance, it would be better for San Francisco to trade him while his value is at its highest than to allow him to walk for nothing after the season.
Samuels has two years left on his current contract, so the Niners should be even less inclined to trade him.
The 49ers were only a play or two away from winning last season's Super Bowl, which the Chiefs won 25-22 in overtime. It would be a shame if San Francisco's front office broke up the band.
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