49ers Linked to Shocking New No. 1 WR for Brock Purdy

The San Francisco 49ers are all but guaranteed to release receiver Brandon Aiyuk, leaving a void at the top of their receiving corps.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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The San Francisco 49ers are reportedly interested in acquiring Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf as a potential replacement for the departing Brandon Aiyuk. Metcalf, a Pro Bowl receiver, would provide a dynamic deep threat for young quarterback Brock Purdy and help offset the losses of other veteran receivers like Jauan Jennings and Kendrick Bourne.

Why it matters

The 49ers are coming off a surprising 12-5 season and playoff appearance, but they have several key offensive pieces to replace this offseason. Acquiring a star like Metcalf would give Purdy a true No. 1 receiver and help the 49ers remain a contender in the NFC West.

The details

The 49ers are expected to release Brandon Aiyuk this offseason after he missed most of the 2024 season with injuries. They are also at risk of losing veteran receivers Jauan Jennings and Kendrick Bourne in free agency. To fill those voids, the 49ers have been linked to several top free agent receivers, including Packers' Romeo Doubs and Vikings' Jalen Nailor. However, a potential trade for Steelers' DK Metcalf has emerged as a surprising option. Metcalf is coming off a strong first season in Pittsburgh, but the Steelers may consider trading him if quarterback Aaron Rodgers retires, allowing them to rebuild.

  • The 49ers are expected to release Brandon Aiyuk this offseason.
  • The 49ers could also lose veteran receivers Jauan Jennings and Kendrick Bourne in free agency.
  • The 2026 NFL Combine took place last week, where the 49ers' interest in free agent receivers was reported.

The players

Brock Purdy

The San Francisco 49ers' young quarterback who is expected to be the team's starter in 2026 after a promising rookie season.

Brandon Aiyuk

A wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers who is expected to be released this offseason after missing most of the 2024 season with injuries.

DK Metcalf

A Pro Bowl wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers who has been identified as a potential trade target for the San Francisco 49ers this offseason.

Aaron Rodgers

The veteran quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers who is still deciding whether to play next season, which could impact the team's plans for DK Metcalf.

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What they’re saying

“Word is that Rodgers is more likely than not to return for at least one more season. If that comes to fruition, the team has little choice but to give Metcalf another year as well. On top of that, the pre-June 1 trade salary-cap savings wouldn't be substantial ($7 million).”

— Brad Gagnon, Bleacher Report Writer (Bleacher Report)

“It's safe to say he's played his last snap with the Niners.”

— John Lynch, San Francisco 49ers General Manager (ESPN)

What’s next

If quarterback Aaron Rodgers decides to retire, the Pittsburgh Steelers may be more inclined to trade wide receiver DK Metcalf, potentially opening the door for the San Francisco 49ers to acquire him.

The takeaway

The 49ers are facing significant turnover at the wide receiver position this offseason, but they appear determined to find a dynamic replacement for Brandon Aiyuk. Acquiring a star like DK Metcalf would give young quarterback Brock Purdy a true No. 1 target and help the 49ers remain a contender in the NFC West.