Would an Adams trade even make sense for the Niners?
Since Kyle Shanahan arrived as head coach, the San Francisco 49ers have never been afraid to pursue a big name via free agency or trade. However, NBC Sports Bay Area’s 49ers beat writer Matt Maiocco quickly put cold water on any speculation that the Niners will pursue Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Davante Adams. Adams, of course, requested a trade earlier this week and is expected to be moved before the trade deadline.
“It seems like the 49ers are always tied to these guys,” Maiocco said on 49ers Now with co-host Jennifer Lee Chan. “Well, here’s one guy that I just don’t see any reason or possibility that the Raiders would consider trading him to the 49ers or the 49ers would be willing to give up what it would take to get Davante Adams.”
San Francisco Chronicle columnist Mike Silver had speculated about the Niners swapping Brandon Aiyuk for Adams prior to Maiocco’s comment, which had likely fueled some fanbase speculation that he was responding to.
Beyond the cost of a midseason move of that proportion, it would also be an incredibly problematic salary cap decision from the Niners’ perspective. Any Aiyuk-for-Adams swap doesn’t make sense unless the Raiders are so desperate to get out from Adams and/or want Aiyuk enough to add in some additional value via picks or players.
KNBR added some fuel to the fire by taking a selective quote from general manager John Lynch’s radio appearance that implied a higher likelihood of pursuit. While Lynch did say “never say never” and complimented Adams as a player, he also said the front office likes the team’s receiver group, and he added, “And I won’t comment on any specific player, but right now, we like where our roster’s at.”
Adams has appeared in three games with the Raiders this season. He has recorded 18 receptions for 209 yards and a touchdown. However, it seems like he may have played his final game in Las Vegas. Despite some speculation, though, it sure doesn’t seem like he’ll be donning a 49ers jersey anytime soon.