49ers $67 million free agent predicted to join Patriots

Wide receiver Jauan Jennings set to leave San Francisco for New England

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A key player on the San Francisco 49ers, wide receiver Jauan Jennings, is predicted to leave the Bay Area and sign with the New England Patriots in free agency. Jennings, 28, has been a reliable playmaker for the 49ers, but CBS Sports' Zachary Pereles believes he will join the Patriots on a three-year, $67 million contract.

Why it matters

The Patriots are in need of wide receiver help after releasing Stefon Diggs, and Jennings would be a strong fit in their offense with his toughness, red-zone ability, and over-the-middle skills. His departure would be a significant loss for the 49ers, who are looking to build on their recent success.

The details

Jennings is projected to sign a three-year, $67 million contract with the Patriots, which would make him one of the highest-paid free agents this offseason. The 49ers will now need to find a replacement for their reliable wide receiver, who has been a key part of their offense in recent years.

  • Jennings is set to become a free agent in the 2026 offseason.

The players

Jauan Jennings

A 28-year-old wide receiver who has been a reliable playmaker for the San Francisco 49ers over the last few years.

Zachary Pereles

A CBS Sports analyst who predicts Jennings will leave the 49ers and sign with the New England Patriots in free agency.

Drake Maye

The Patriots' starting quarterback, who would benefit from having Jennings as a target in the offense.

Mike Vrabel

The head coach of the New England Patriots, who has built a culture of toughness that Jennings' playstyle would fit well.

Josh McDaniels

The offensive coordinator of the New England Patriots, who would likely find ways to effectively utilize Jennings' skills in the team's offense.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The Patriots rose from one of the NFL's worst teams to one of its best thanks to hitting it big in 2025 free agency. Still, holes remain, with pass rusher and wide receiver being the most glaring -- the latter especially so after the release of Stefon Diggs. Jauan Jennings, 28, steps in as a tough, reliable pass catcher willing to block and work over the middle.”

— Zachary Pereles, CBS Sports Analyst (CBS Sports)

What’s next

The 49ers will need to find a replacement for Jennings in free agency or the upcoming draft, while the Patriots will look to finalize a contract with the wide receiver to bolster their passing attack.

The takeaway

This move highlights the Patriots' continued commitment to building a championship-caliber roster through free agency, as well as the 49ers' challenge to retain key offensive pieces amid the league's competitive landscape.