Carolina Panthers receive: 2025 4th round pick, 2025 5th round pick, 2026 4th round pick

The San Francisco 49ers receive: WR Diontae Johnson

The San Francisco 49ers have been wiped out by injuries and their chances of making a third Super Bowl appearance in six years have plummeted as a result. Their receiving corps has been hit particularly hard as San Francisco is still reeling from the loss of its No. 1 wideout of the year, Brandon Aiyuk, to a torn ACL. Deebo Samuel, Jauan Jennings and Ricky Pearsall have also all missed time, while star running back Christian McCaffrey has yet to play this season.

Despite the numerous injuries, San Francisco has managed to climb to a .500 record heading into Week 9. It’s not too late for the Niners to turn things around and head into the playoffs, but they may need some extra help.

Acquiring Johnson would give San Francisco the elite pass-catcher it needs to find some consistency and pick up wins for the first time in 2024.

Quarterback Brock Purdy struggled without his reliable support team. The third-year signal-caller has taken significant steps backwards from last season, when he emerged as one of the league’s top MVP candidates.

Purdy completed 69.4 percent of his throws for 4,280 yards and 31 touchdowns with 11 interceptions in 2023. This year, his completion percentage is down nearly five points, and after a polarizing start, he’s on pace for just 21 touchdowns and 15 interceptions.

The Niners need more firepower to bolster their signal-caller, and Johnson should be at the top of their list right now. He may not be considered one of the best wideouts in the league, but he has the talent to reach that level in the right system and at an affordable price.

San Francisco’s offense under Kyle Shanahan could unlock Johnson’s full potential. He could put up the best numbers of his career if the Niners decide to trade him.