49ers Sign Chris Conley
This is an intriguing move.
The 49ers have signed veteran wide receiver Chris Conley to a one-year deal, according to reports. Conley is 30-years old and caught just four passes in 7 games with the Tennessee Titans last season, but has started 63 games in his career, including 10 in 2021, plus he's 6-foot-2 and he runs a 4.35.
It's possible the 49ers will revive Conley's career. But even if they don't and he gets cut, now we know the 49ers are in the market for a wide receiver, one who's tall, fast and makes long catches near the sideline. A split end.
The 49ers starting split end currently is Brandon Aiyuk, who's a very good player. This offseason, he's eligible for a contract extension, but it doesn't appear he'll get it, because they gave fellow wide receiver Deebo Samuel a huge contract extension last year and they might not think they can afford two high-priced wide receivers.
In addition, Aiyuk seems frustrated with his role on the team. He recently tweeted that he's the fourth option in a run-first offense. Perhaps he'd like to be the first option on a pass-first team.
Finally, the 49ers have no first- or second-round pick this year. If they want one, they might have to trade Aiyuk, who probably is worth a late first-round pick. Theoretically, the 49ers could trade Aiyuk to the New York Giants, who reportedly want Aiyuk and own pick No. 25 in Round 1. Then the 49ers coud let Conley compete with second-year wide receiver Danny Gray for a starting job. Or the 49ers could draft another wide receiver.
This is a position to monitor.