The San Francisco 49ers are gearing up for the 2026 season, and while they've made some impressive additions to their wide receiver room, one former NFL general manager believes they could be missing a key piece. In a recent appearance on ESPN's 'NFL Live', Mike Tannenbaum suggested that the 49ers should consider signing Stefon Diggs, a 2-time All-Pro wide receiver.
Tannenbaum's argument is compelling. He points out that while the 49ers have added Mike Evans and drafted De'Zhaun Stribling, bringing in Diggs could provide a veteran presence that could help the team in the short term. Diggs, despite being past his prime, has a proven track record of success, having caught 942 passes for 11,504 yards and 74 touchdowns in his 11-year career. He's a 4-time Pro Bowl selection and 2-time All-Pro, which speaks to his elite level of play.
The 49ers' current depth chart includes Evans, Kirk, and Pearsall, with Stribling and the trio of Jordan Watkins, Demarcus Robinson, and Jacob Cowing competing for the fifth spot. Diggs would likely slot in behind Evans, creating an interesting competition for the final spot. If all these players stay healthy, the 49ers could have one of the best wide receiver rooms in the league.
However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. Diggs is 32 years old, and his prime years are behind him. The 49ers have a young core, and Diggs might not be the long-term solution they're looking for. Additionally, the team's focus is on winning now, and Diggs might not be the best fit for their immediate needs. Despite this, Diggs' presence could provide a boost to the team's passing attack and help Brock Purdy and the offense in the short term.
In my opinion, the 49ers should consider Diggs' potential impact. While he might not be the long-term solution, his experience and proven track record could be valuable. The team's win-now mindset could be a factor, but Diggs' ability to step in and contribute immediately is undeniable. The 49ers have a strong foundation, and Diggs could be the piece that helps them take the next step.
The NFL landscape is ever-evolving, and the 49ers' strategy should reflect that. While they've made some impressive moves, Diggs could be the missing piece that helps them reach new heights. It's a fascinating discussion, and one that highlights the complexity of building a championship-caliber team.
