A wide receiver linked to a trade with the Las Vegas Raiders could mean a significant shake-up at wide receiver for
the San Francisco 49ers this summer. The futures of Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel, along with the fact that
Jauan Jennings is a free agent this offseason, present San Francisco with a number of issues.
This is one of the reason Hunter Renfrow is listed as a possible addition by Bleacher Report’s scouting staff. Though
Renfrow hasn’t said much in the last two seasons, he was recently selected for his first and only Pro Bowl. According
to the February 19 story, “The 49ers should also consider adding depth and/or an insurance policy for Aiyuk, who
may or may not receive an extension this offseason.” “Adding a veteran like Curtis Samuel or Hunter Renfrow—a
potential Raiders cap casualty or trade target—should be considered, especially considering the win-now makeup of
San Francisco’s roster.”
During the 2021 season, Renfrow was one of the Raiders’ main weapons. However, it appears that he may soon be
leaving Las Vegas due to declining usage and output. The 49ers or any other team that could be interested may wait
to see whether the Raiders release him, even though a trade might work.
Renfrow would be a fantastic low-cost option for a No. 3 or No. 4 receiver if he is cut. Additionally, he has
demonstrated the capacity to produce excellent seasons, thus “buying low” can result in excellent value.
Renfrow was selected in the fifth round of the 2019 NFL Draft to play in the NFL. The Raiders need a proven winner,
and he was an important member of Clemson’s two National Championship runs in 2016 and 2018. The 28-year-old
receiver was making an impact in his first season.
According to Pro Football Reference, he had four touchdowns and 605 yards on 49 receptions in 2019. Renfrow had
a great year in 2020 and then really took off in 2021. With 103 passes intercepted, the former Clemson Tiger gained
1038 receiving yards and nine touchdowns.
In recognition of his Pro Bowl selection, the Raiders gave him a $32.3 million, two-year contract extension.
Regretfully, his output has decreased significantly from his prior campaigns.
Due to injury, Renfrow missed seven games in 2022 and only caught 36 catches for 330 yards and two touchdowns.
Though he participated in every game in 2023, he was only on the field for 35 percent of the team’s offensive plays.
Upon the year’s end, he had 25 catches for 255 yards and no touchdowns.
In the event that San Francisco chooses not to re-sign Jauan Jennings, Renfrow would not be a comparable
alternative. Five inches taller than Renfrow, Jennings is renowned for his ability to move up and secure a throw.
Although Renfrow’s skill set isn’t as strong, he is nevertheless regarded as a tough receiver through the catch. He
really has a career catch percentage of 74.1% and has only had six drops in the last four seasons.
The money is largely where this suggestion’s veracity lies. Given San Francisco’s financial constraints, it is certain
that Jennings will demand a respectable raise following yet another strong year and a standout Super Bowl showing.
While neither player should be overpriced, Jennings should probably get paid more than Renfrow. Connecting
Renfrow with 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy might be a financially advantageous move if Jennings sets himself
apart.
