The San Francisco 49ers are early winners of the 2026 trade deadline, but with two weeks still to go, there is still much to be decided.
Despite reuniting with defensive lineman DeForest Buckner, there are still numerous (and highly plausible) paths to transactional failure for the red and gold, some of which are completely out of their control.
Here are three scenarios that could legitimately happen in the coming days, all of which have gained at least some traction, that would put the 49ers' backs up against the wall.
1. Seahawks aren't done powering up
What the Seahawks lack in cap space, they make up for in assets. After losing numerous players to free agency this past offseason, most notably Kenneth Walker III, they were compensated well with draft stock, receiving five compensatory picks for their troubles.
That being said, there is still work to be done in Seattle. Their acquisition of Pro Bowl guard Quenton Nelson will likely not be their only big splash before November 10th.
Whether it's further bolstering the offensive line or aiding superstar Jaxon Smith-Njigba with a running mate out wide, expect the 49ers' division rival to continue looking for ways to elevate themselves in the playoff picture.
2. Vikings trade for Jonathan Taylor
The Vikings are currently the only team in the NFC (in the league, for that matter) with a better record than the 49ers. Largely on the back of Brian Flores' impenetrable defense, Minnesota is off to a blistering 6-0 start.
However impressive they have been on defense, they have been equally putrid on the opposite side of the ball. They rank 23rd in points per game and don't necessarily pose as a significant Super Bowl contender because of it.
Jonathan Taylor is one of the most feared backs in the NFL, and a trade with him as the focal point would completely change the NFC playoff landscape. Minnesota quarterback Kyler Murray has proved he cannot be a game-changing signal caller, and head coach Kevin O'Connell is in desparate search of a team identity. An offense running through Jonathan Taylor would be much more renowned than an offense running through Jordan Mason.
Though the addition may not put them over the hump of Super Bowl contention, it could eventually hinder the 49ers' ability to secure a first-round bye, thus forcing them to play one extra game on their quest for the Vince Lombardi Trophy. The Vikings are currently favorited to land the star if he indeed gets traded.
3. Bears beat out 49ers in Khalil Mack sweepstakes
Outside of the Vikings and 49ers, the Bears may be the next-biggest threat to secure the NFC's one seed. With Caleb Williams back, they are rolling. Now, both Chicago and San Francisco reportedly have eyes for the same Los Angeles defender.
The Chargers are in the middle of a catastrophic season, and linebacker Khalil Mack could be the first to go if the franchise decides to throw in the towel. Mack, a veteran of 13 years, can still help a playoff defense. He has three sacks on the young season and has been one of the team's few bright spots. There are a couple of reasons why Chicago might end up beating out San Francisco in the sweepstakes.
First, Mack played for the Bears from 2018 to 2021. He could easily take the route of DeForest Buckner and name his former team as his preferred trade destination.
The Bears also have more of a greater defensive side of the ball. Though not inept in point prevention, they chase the 49ers in most defensive statistical categories, not to mention the Niners just took their big swing on Tuesday.
The Bears already look like a Super Bowl threat, and the 49ers may see them in January. Fans better hope they don't acquire even more talent before then.
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