The San Francisco 49ers entered the 2024 NFL season with high hopes after their impressive run to the Super Bowl the previous year. Yet, those aspirations have gradually dimmed as injuries have plagued the team, leaving fans wondering if the franchise will become sellers at the trade deadline on November 5.
This season has not been smooth sailing for the 49ers. A number of their star players have either been sidelined or not performing at their best due to health issues. Among those affected is running back Christian McCaffrey, who has yet to play this season due to injuries to his calf and Achilles tendon. The wide receiving corps has also taken significant hits. Brandon Aiyuk suffered a season-ending torn ACL, and Deebo Samuel has struggled with various ailments, including pneumonia. The injury list continues to grow, as tight end George Kittle is now questionable for Week 8 with foot issues.
For their upcoming game against the Dallas Cowboys, the 49ers will be without several key players, including McCaffrey, cornerback Charvarius Ward, and kicker Jake Moody. Despite these challenges, there's hope on the horizon. McCaffrey is projected to return by Week 10 after the bye week, which gives fans something to cling to.
With the team's current record at 3-4, speculation arises whether the 49ers might look to trade some of their high-salaried veterans as they navigate through this injury-riddled season. NFL insider Dianna Russini pointed out the looming contract extension for quarterback Brock Purdy, which could be worth over $60 million per year. The team's management might feel pressed to make financial adjustments to accommodate such expenses, potentially leading them to listen to trade offers for established players.
Names like Ward, who is on the last year of his contract, have sparked rumors. Considering his performance as a second-team All-Pro last season, he might attract interest from other teams. On the flip side, it’s likely the team won’t part with Samuel, especially following Aiyuk's injury.
Yet, the idea of trading doesn't end there. The 49ers could also look to add talent, driven by their need for reinforcements. Given the perceived weakness within the NFC West this season, the 49ers may be incentivized to trade for players, possibly eyeing former teammates like DeForest Buckner, now with the Indianapolis Colts, or D.J. Jones from the Denver Broncos. The front office, led by general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan, has shown willingness to make bold moves, whether buying or selling.
With the Cowboys on the horizon, the stakes couldn't be higher. If the 49ers manage to pull off a win, they could enter their bye week at 4-4 and still within the race for the NFC West title, particularly with aspirations to see McCaffrey back on the field. A loss, on the other hand, could send them spiraling, leaving them at 3-5 and questioning their direction for the rest of the season.
The matchup on Sunday night will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike. After all, the 49ers must justify their status; do they remain contenders, or will they transition to sellers at the deadline? Decisions made over the next few weeks will shape the future of this iconic franchise.
