The San Francisco 49ers face multiple roster questions this offseason as they look to keep pace in a competitive NFC West that produced three playoff teams in 2025, including the eventual Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks.
Injuries played a significant role in San Francisco's inability to capture the division crown. Still, head coach Kyle Shanahan's team finished 12-5 and reached the postseason alongside the Seahawks and the Los Angeles Rams.
As the NFL world descends on Indianapolis for the NFL Scouting Combine, CBS Sports analyst Josh Edwards identified wide receiver as the 49ers' biggest need.
"San Francisco dealt with a mountain of injuries last season," Edwards wrote. "It is clear Brandon Aiyuk has played his last snap in the Bay Area, and Jauan Jennings is an unrestricted free agent. The 49ers have an opportunity to reset the position this offseason."
With Aiyuk expected to depart and Jennings likely to test the open market, the 49ers' wide receiver room could look dramatically different in 2026. Kendrick Bourne and Skyy Moore are also slated for free agency, while former first-round pick Ricky Pearsall struggled with injuries in his second NFL season.
San Francisco is widely expected to address the position in the 2026 NFL Draft. How early they do so remains the question.
However, the 49ers could also explore free agency or the trade market to add proven production. NFL insider Jason La Canfora recently linked the team to veteran wideout Mike Evans, who may become one of the most intriguing names available.
That said, wide receiver is not the only pressing concern.
The 49ers' defense recorded a league-low 20 sacks in 2025 despite investing three draft picks in defensive linemen last year. Injuries to veteran Nick Bosa and rookie Mykel Williams further contributed to the unit's struggles.
"Edge rusher and defensive line should still be priorities for the franchise despite investing in the unit last offseason," Edwards added.
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