49ers: Imagining an uber hypothetical 2018 free agency

San Francisco 49ers: Imagining an uber hypothetical 2018 free agency

CLEVELAND, OH - NOVEMBER 20: Le'Veon Bell #26 of the Pittsburgh Steelers carries the ball past the defense of Jamie Collins #51 of the Cleveland Browns during the first quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium on November 20, 2016 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

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LANDOVER, MD – DECEMBER 20: Wide receiver Sammy Watkins #14 of the Buffalo Bills makes a catch in front of cornerback Bashaud Breeland #26 of the Washington Redskins for a third quarter touchdown at FedExField on December 20, 2015 in Landover, Maryland. The Washington Redskins won, 35-25. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /

Wide receiver Sammy Watkins

Deal: 5 years, $61.4 million — $12.2 million/year

Space left: $66.4 million

Easily the signing that would carry the most risk, and as well as receiving the most criticism. Sammy Watkins has sidelined by injuries throughout his short NFL career, which has hampered his ability to perform his best.

This would be the focal point of any argument made against signing Watkins, but it can also be used in reverse.

The mileage is low, and the ceiling remains high. It’d be a heavy risk-reward for the team, but I ultimately do not believe Watkins will command the figure that Spotrac predicts.

And in a scheme like Shanahan’s, Watkins would certainly excel.