Jimmy Garoppolo: 5 moves the 49ers can make to help their quarterback in 2018
By Chris Wilson
Add a playmaking receiver
As surprising as Jimmy Garoppolo’s instant success was, it was shocking that he did so while throwing to a group of rookies and unproven players.
Garoppolo’s top receiver was Marquise Goodwin, a wide receiver who began the season with under 800 career receiving yards, and his go-to target on third downs was 5-foot-8 rookie slot receiver Trent Taylor. Garoppolo’s “security blanket” tight ends were fifth-round rookie George Kittle and Garrett Celek, who led all NFL tight ends in drop rate in 2016.
The return of wide receiver Pierre Garçon will add to Garoppolo’s list of potential targets, but the 49ers need to add another playmaking receiver through free agency, or via the upcoming 2018 NFL Draft.
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Allen Robinson would add 14-touchdown upside, and could come at a discount after being sidelined by injury in 2017. The draft is also full of potential playmakers, including Texas A&M’s Christian Kirk, who may be available in the second day of the draft.