Making the Call on the 49ers’ Remaining Free Agents

Anquan Boldin

The question of Anquan Boldin’s future is one of the bigger dilemmas facing the 49ers in free agency.

Boldin was once again the Niners’ best receiver in 2015 but is certainly past his peak at 35. Despite his age, Boldin led San Francisco with 789 yards on 69 catches while also adding four touchdowns.

And, although the Niners will want to get younger receivers such as Quinton Patton, Bruce Ellington and DeAndre Smelter on the field, none have demonstrated the same ability to win with route-running and make contested catches Boldin has displayed.

Following the Chicago Bears’ decision to franchise Alshon Jeffery, there is little in terms of talent on the market at the wide receiver position. Furthermore this year’s draft class is not as strong at the position as in recent years, meaning a dependable pass-catcher like Boldin could have even more value to the 49ers.

But Boldin, per Rand Getlin of NFL Network, is keen to play for a team that can compete at the highest level having previously expressed a desire to return to the Niners.

It is tough to gauge how other teams will value him, but Boldin, even at this stage in his career, remains an extremely tough possession receiver who could be make a big impact for a championship contender.

The 49ers have too many holes to fill to be considered a contender in 2016 and, if Boldin really is looking to make a move to a team capable of providing him with a second Super Bowl ring, then a fourth season with San Francisco seems an unlikely prospect.

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