49ers in the Market for a Star Wide Receiver:
By Justsportinfo| February 16, 2025
The San Francisco 49ers are entering a pivotal offseason with questions surrounding their wide receiver corps. With Deebo Samuel requesting a trade and Brandon Aiyuk recovering from a torn ACL and MCL, the team is suddenly in need of reinforcements at a position that has been one of their strengths in recent years.
One name that has emerged as a potential target is Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Chris Godwin. A four-time Pro Bowler, Godwin has been one of the most consistent receivers in the league throughout his career. However, he is coming off a significant injury, and with the Buccaneers potentially heading toward a rebuild, his future in Tampa Bay remains uncertain.
Would Godwin be a good fit in Kyle Shanahan’s offense? And should the 49ers make a move for him despite concerns about his durability and contract? Let’s break it all down.
49ers’ Wide Receiver Woes
For the past few seasons, the 49ers have boasted one of the most dynamic wide receiver duos in the league with Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk. Samuel, known for his versatility and physical playing style, has been a focal point of Shanahan’s offense, while Aiyuk has emerged as one of the best route-runners in the NFL.
However, things have changed dramatically in recent months.
Samuel’s Trade Request: Reports surfaced that Samuel requested a trade after the 49ers’ NFC Championship loss. While the exact reasons remain unclear, contract disputes and dissatisfaction with his role in the offense may have played a part. Given his injury history and the wear-and-tear of playing a hybrid wide receiver/running back role, the 49ers might be willing to part ways with him if the right deal comes along.
Aiyuk’s Injury: Aiyuk suffered a devastating knee injury late in the season, tearing both his ACL and MCL. While he has been working hard in rehab, there is no guarantee he will return to his pre-injury form. Even if he does, it’s possible he will miss a significant portion of the 2025 season.
Current Depth: The 49ers still have Jauan Jennings, who has proven to be a reliable possession receiver, and Ricky Pearsall, a promising young talent. However, neither player is viewed as a true WR1, which means the team must explore options in free agency or the draft.
Chris Godwin: A Proven Playmaker
At 28 years old, Chris Godwin has already put together an impressive career. A second-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, he quickly became one of the Buccaneers’ most dependable offensive weapons.
His career highlights include:
Four Pro Bowl selections (2020-2023)
Super Bowl LV champion with Tom Brady
Three 1,000-yard seasons (2019, 2021, 2023)
Career-best season in 2019 with 86 catches, 1,333 yards, and 9 touchdowns
Godwin is known for his route-running, strong hands, and ability to make contested catches. He also brings versatility, having lined up both outside and in the slot during his time in Tampa Bay.
However, his injury history is a concern. He tore his ACL in 2021, which slowed him down the following season. In 2024, he suffered a dislocated ankle in Week 7, which required surgery and sidelined him for the rest of the year.
Despite the injuries, when healthy, Godwin remains a top-tier receiver capable of making an immediate impact.
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Why Godwin Makes Sense for the 49ers
1. He Fits Shanahan’s Offense
Shanahan’s system thrives on versatility and precision. While Godwin doesn’t possess the same running ability as Deebo Samuel, he can line up in multiple positions, run a diverse route tree, and block effectively in the run game.
2. The Need for an Experienced WR
With Aiyuk’s return uncertain, the 49ers can’t afford to rely solely on young and unproven receivers. Adding Godwin would give Brock Purdy a reliable veteran target who can move the chains and take pressure off George Kittle.
3. The 49ers Have Cap Space
San Francisco currently has over $48 million in cap space, giving them the flexibility to pursue a high-level free agent like Godwin. However, they also have upcoming extensions to consider, including a massive deal for Brock Purdy.
Potential Challenges in Signing Godwin
1. Injury Concerns
Coming off a serious ankle injury, there’s no guarantee Godwin will return to peak form. Given that he also suffered an ACL tear in 2021, the 49ers would need to be confident in his medical evaluation before making a significant financial commitment.
2. Contract Demands
Godwin is still under contract with the Buccaneers through 2025, with a cap hit of nearly $21 million. If Tampa Bay is willing to trade him, the 49ers would have to decide whether they’re comfortable taking on that contract or restructuring it. If he’s released and becomes a free agent, he could command a multi-year deal worth $18-22 million annually.
3. Other Free Agent Options
The 49ers may have alternative options in free agency, such as:
Tee Higgins (Bengals) – A bigger, more physical receiver
Calvin Ridley (Jaguars) – A precise route-runner with big-play ability
Mike Evans (Buccaneers) – If Tampa Bay lets him walk, he could be a better option than Godwin
Final Verdict: Should the 49ers Sign Godwin?
There’s no denying that Chris Godwin is a talented receiver who could help the 49ers fill the void left by Deebo Samuel’s likely departure. However, there are risks involved, particularly concerning his health and contract.
If the 49ers can acquire him via trade at a reasonable price or if Tampa Bay releases him and he’s willing to sign an incentive-based contract, it could be a move worth making. However, if he demands top-tier money, San Francisco might be better off looking elsewhere or investing in the draft.
Ultimately, while Godwin’s skill set aligns well with Shanahan’s offense, his injury history and cost could make him a risky investment. The 49ers must weigh their options carefully as they look to keep their Super Bowl window open.
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