The San Francisco 49ers are in an unusual position at wide receiver, as Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel’s futures appear uncertain. The 49ers have openly discussed signing an extension with Aiyuk. However, limited cap space and other logistical constraints make this easier said than done.
Regardless, San Francisco must prepare to reload. According to a new piece by Bleacher Report analyst Derrik Klassen, Western Kentucky prospect Malachi Corley could be an option.
“Everyone loves a short, stocky receiver with a nasty streak, thus everyone adores Malachi Corley. Klassen wrote on March 28: “A sturdy 5’11” and 215 pounds, he is more of a running back than a wide receiver. “He’s not yet a polished, expansive route-runner, but my word can he bring the pain with the ball in his hands.”
Short, stocky, with a nasty streak? That sounds just like Samuel. In fact, Corley’s draft biography on NFL.com compares him directly to Deebo.
Adding a guy of that caliber may pave the way for a natural succession if the 49ers decide to replace Samuel. However, the idea of having a proven veteran like Samuel and then adding an understudy seems like an inefficient way to prepare for his eventual replacement.