The San Francisco 49ers are heading into NFL free agency with a clear mission: retool, reload, and reignite their Super Bowl push. With Jauan Jennings coming off a nine-touchdown season, re-signing him is undoubtedly a priority. But that’s just one piece of what could be a much bigger offseason puzzle for GM John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan.
There’s a sense of urgency in Santa Clara - and not just because of who might be coming in, but also who could be heading out. Brandon Aiyuk, who didn’t suit up in 2025, appears likely to part ways with the team.
If Jennings also walks, the 49ers would be losing their top scoring threat from last season. That opens the door for some creative, strategic moves - and Lynch appears ready to explore the free agent market to reshape both sides of the ball.
Jennings’ return would be a stabilizing move for the offense, but the 49ers are also eyeing under-the-radar talent who could make a big impact. Let’s take a closer look at three intriguing free agents who could quietly become game-changers in San Francisco.
1. A Vertical Threat Who Can Change the Game
One of the most explosive receivers available this offseason is Pierce - and he’s coming off a breakout year that turned heads. He racked up 1,003 receiving yards while averaging a jaw-dropping 21.3 yards per catch. That kind of production, especially while catching passes from multiple quarterbacks - including a late-season stint with Phillip Rivers - speaks volumes about his ability to adapt and produce in any situation.
The Los Angeles Rams are already being floated as a potential landing spot for Pierce, but the 49ers would be wise to make a strong push. He brings something this offense could really use: a true deep threat who can stretch the field and force defenses to stay honest. Pairing Pierce with rookie Ricky Pearsall gives Brock Purdy two burners who can open up Shanahan’s playbook in a big way.
And if Jennings doesn’t return? Pierce becomes an even more valuable asset, especially in the red zone.
His size and ability to win 50-50 balls make him a natural fit for contested catches near the goal line. But imagine the possibilities if all three - Pierce, Pearsall, and Jennings - are on the field together.
That’s a trio with serious firepower.
2. A Bosa Brothers Reunion in the Bay?
There’s a potential family reunion brewing in San Francisco - and it could be a savvy move for the 49ers’ defensive front. With Nick Bosa working his way back from a second ACL tear, and top draft pick Mykel Williams also recovering from the same injury, the team could use some veteran depth and edge presence.
Enter Joey Bosa.
The elder Bosa brother is a free agent, and at 30 years old, he’s at a stage in his career where rotational snaps and a shot at a title are likely top priorities. San Francisco checks both boxes.
The 49ers’ defensive line culture, led by respected D-line coach Kris Kocurek, is tailor-made for a player like Joey. He wouldn’t have to carry the full load, but he could still make a meaningful impact - especially if Nick isn’t quite ready by training camp.
This move wouldn’t just be sentimental. It’s a smart way to add proven pass rush ability to a unit that thrives on depth and relentless pressure. And let’s be honest - the idea of the Bosa brothers wreaking havoc off opposite edges is something that would get any defensive coordinator (and fan base) fired up.
3. A Red Zone Weapon with Untapped Potential
If the 49ers end up losing both Aiyuk and Jennings, the wide receiver room will need more than just a deep threat. They’ll need a physical, reliable target who can win contested catches and serve as a go-to option in tight spaces. Romeo Doubs could be that guy.
Doubs is coming off a career-best 724-yard season with the Packers, but he’s been somewhat buried in Green Bay’s deep receiver rotation. That makes him a prime candidate for a fresh start - and San Francisco could be the perfect landing spot.
Whether he’s replacing Jennings or teaming up with him, Doubs brings a different flavor to the offense. He’s not just a possession receiver; he’s a tough, physical route-runner who thrives in traffic.
In the red zone, he becomes a matchup nightmare for smaller corners and safeties. That’s exactly the kind of target Purdy could use when the field shrinks and every inch matters.
The 49ers don’t need a full rebuild - far from it. They’re still a contender with a loaded roster and one of the league’s most innovative offensive minds in Shanahan. But this offseason is about fine-tuning the machine, filling key gaps, and making sure the team is ready to make another deep playoff run.
Whether it’s adding a vertical threat like Pierce, bringing in a savvy vet like Joey Bosa, or finding a red zone weapon in Doubs, the pieces are there for San Francisco to not just stay competitive - but to get back to the Super Bowl. And if Lynch and Shanahan play their cards right, this could be the offseason that puts them over the top.