It's a new era for the San Francisco 49ers.
After falling short of expectations this season, Kyle Shanahan's club is retooling the roster with hopes of springing back into contention in 2025. It led to tough decisions on offense, especially regarding Deebo Samuel's future.
While a trade felt inevitable, the Niners' decision to send Samuel to the NFC-rival Washington Commanders for a fifth-round pick sent shockwaves through the NFL world.
But there's good news. San Francisco gets cap relief, as ESPN's Adam Schefter reports Washington will take on the remaining $17.55 million of Samuel's contract.
The trade also conveniently falls on the day of the wide receiver workouts at the NFL Scouting Combine, and one standout performer must be on the Niners' radar. In fact, you could say they now have a Golden opportunity to upgrade the wide receiver room.
49ers should target NFL Combine star Matthew Golden to replace Deebo Samuel
Texas wide receiver Matthew Golden stole the show during Saturday's NFL Combine workouts, running a lightning 4.29-second 40-yard dash.
Golden's speed makes him an incredible deep threat, but he offers so much more and could dominate in a Kyle Shanahan offense. Golden runs smooth routes, rarely drops the football, and proved he can dominate the target share, which he did in his final season at Texas.
Golden stepped up as Texas' No. 1 wide receiver, catching 58 passes for 987 yards and nine touchdowns. He averaged an unbelievable 17 yards per catch.
He has extensive experience working out of the slot and is phenomenal after the catch. According to Pro Football Focus, 303 of Golden's 987 yards came after the catch last season.
With the versatility to play across the formation, the speed to stretch defenses vertically, and the yards-after-catch talent to become Brock Purdy's best friend, Golden would be a dream addition to Shanahan's offense.
The Niners pick at No. 11, which may be a little early for Golden, even after his head-turning combine performance. That said, his draft stock is soaring, and he could soon become a top-20 lock in the first round. There's a possible scenario where the 49ers could trade down, acquire additional draft capital, and still land Golden in the first round.