The San Francisco 49ers are linked to a potential receiver, but they have pressing matters to attend to before fretting about next year’s squad. Considering the uncertainty over 49ers WR Brandon Aiyuk’s future, it may be the perfect method to restock if he departs.
Luke Easterling of Sports Illustrated recently projected that San Francisco would select Washington standout receiver Jalen McMillan in the 2024 NFL draft. McMillan is anticipated to be selected in the third round, pick 94.
Quick-witted and seasoned wide receiver McMillan most recently scored in the Huskies’ National Championship defeat. Sports Reference reports that he has made 38 appearances for Washington, accumulating 2143 yards.
McMillan has also scored eighteen touchdowns in total. Even though he and the Huskies were eliminated from the National Championship game, he and Rome Odunze and Ja’Lynn Polk made a name for themselves in the previous two seasons.
49ers fans would be hurt by Aiyuk’s possible exit, but the team must move on. In the event that they decide to move Aiyuk rather than extend his contract, McMillan would be a fantastic choice.
“Excellent Baseline Speed and Explosiveness” Characterize McMillan
Ian Cummings of Pro Football Network just conducted a thorough analysis of McMillan in advance of the draft. It is not because of his deficiencies, but rather unfortunate injury luck, that he might become available later.
Rome Odunze and Ja’Lynn Polk may have had an even more successful 2023 season, but McMillan still managed to pile up 39 receptions for 526 yards and four touchdowns due to injuries, according to Cummings.
In 2023, McMillan played in just 11 games overall, not counting the three postseason games the team played in. However, he had 20 receptions for 222 yards and two touchdowns in those three games.
Cummings’s breakdown makes reference to his speed several times. McMillan is recognized as a “streamlined athlete with great baseline speed and explosiveness.” He is also praised for his toughness through the catch and his “diverse” route running.
That sounds a lot like Aiyuk, if anything. His resume is not quite as impressive as Aiyuk’s from her time in college. Aiyuk didn’t have to worry about McMillan sharing production with other NFL draft prospects like Odunze and Polk.
Aiyuk Was Just Connected to the Jaguars Trade
Speaking of Aiyuk, there has been talk of him joining the Jacksonville Jaguars. He is a wide receiver for the 49ers. Alex Kay of Bleacher Report discussed the 49ers’ requirement to cash in on Aiyuk.
Sean Deveney of Heavy reported that it’s obvious the 49ers don’t want to lose their wide receiver. However, Kay reveals what Jacksonville could have to give up for Aiyuk, so they might not have an option.
On January 2, Kay reported, “If the Jaguars choose to extend [Calvin] Ridley, the move would cost them a second-round pick as part of his trade conditions.” “Jacksonville could use that kind of money to acquire Aiyuk instead, who is probably going to cost a first-round pick and some additional draft picks.”
It’s enormous to get that amount of draft capital. The 49ers are cash strapped as a result of having multiple elite players. With first-round selections, they may prolong their competitive window and affordably upgrade or rebuild the club.
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