NFL insider Ian Rapoport emphasized that the 49ers are looking to get younger this offseason, moving on from older, less-productive players—even if it comes at a significant short-term cost. This approach allowed the Washington Commanders to acquire Samuel for just a fifth-round draft pick, and it's also why the team plans to release defensive tackle Javon Hargrave.
Rapoport pointed out that quarterback Brock Purdy is expected to command an average annual salary of at least $50 million, forcing the 49ers to make tough financial decisions in the future.
"They're kind of out of that window where they have the best bargain in NFL history with the cheapest quarterback you could ever imagine being your starter, where you just spend whatever money you want around him and everything is fine," Rapoport said on NFL Network.
While Rapoport noted that trading Samuel clears some of his future salary, he didn't mention the $31.55 million dead cap hit it creates due to the acceleration of future earnings into this year.
Rapoport also reported that the 49ers have already begun contract negotiations with Purdy, something general manager John Lynch revealed last week in Indianapolis. He added that the team's youth movement could lead to more discussions about high-priced veterans on the roster.
"But it was really more about just kind of moving on to a little bit of a younger team, which does seem why they're at least open to dealing Brandon Aiyuk despite that big contract," Rapoport said. "But yes, the 49ers have begun conversations with Brock Purdy and his agent, Kyle Strongin, to try to get a new deal.
"[TE] George Kittle potentially getting a new deal, that is on the docket as well. It's going to be an expensive offseason for the 49ers, as they all seem to be, which is why shedding money, getting a little younger makes some sense."
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers' Jauan Jennings training with renowned receivers coach this offseason
While the San Francisco 49ers struggled to secure just six wins last season, Jauan Jennings had his most productive campaign to date. He set career highs in targets (113), receptions (77), receiving yards (975), and touchdowns (6). Now entering the final year of his contract,... -
Projection of Early Return of 49ers' Brandon Aiyuk Continues to Gain Traction
The big story of the 2024 pre-season in San Francisco was the long, arduous contract negotiation involving 49ers' star wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk. By the beginning of the regular season, his contract was done, but the drama continued. Aiyuk was viewed by some 49er fans... -
Kyle Shanahan Sees Tight End Luke Farrell As Prime 49ers Roster Asset
There are certainly other higher-profile roster moves taking place in San Francisco these days, but one of the lesser talked about changes may have a bigger impact on the 49ers' offense this year than some might expect. Three weeks ago, the 49ers signed free-agent tight end... -
Mock draft roundup: PFF, TDN, CBS Sports, and The 33rd Team project 49ers' moves
Mock draft season is in full swing, and several top news and analysis outlets have released their latest projections for the 2025 NFL Draft. Among them are Pro Football Focus (PFF), The Draft Network (TDN), CBS Sports, and The 33rd Team. Here's a look at what these analysts...