Due to the way the San Francisco 49ers are playing this year, the team has been plagued by various trade rumors. As suggested by these rumors, various athletes, including quarterbacks Blaine Gabbert and Colin Kaepernick, could end up on the trading block this year.
But aside from these two high-profile athletes, there are also other players who have become the subject of trade speculations. One of these is wide receiver Terry Smith.
He officially joined the 49ers roster in 2015 after signing a five-year contract worth $40 million with $22 million guaranteed.
Compared to his time with the Baltimore Ravens, Smith's first year in San Francisco was certainly not that spectacular. For one, the 49ers were struggling with the center positions last year, which then affected Smith's performance. Still though, he has managed to maintain an average of 18.7 yards per reception with the 49ers.
Due to his ability to play consistently, various franchise have already started approaching the 49ers for a possible trade deal for Smith, according to rumors. These include the Philadelphia Eagles. Although San Francisco had already maintained that Smith is not available for a trade, the team could eventually change its mind if a tempting offer is made.
Aside from Smith, another athlete that was rumored to be on the 49ers' trading block is Joe Staley. These rumors emerged due to the offensive tackle's long career with the team, which began in 2007. Since the team is currently going through a 6-game losing streak, sources suggested that San Francisco might consider trading its veteran athletes in exchange for younger and stronger players. However, coach Chip Kelly debunked these rumors and noted that the team is staying with Staley.
"I understand how it comes up because we're 1-6 and Joe is a veteran player, but it doesn't matter where you are that's going to be speculation no matter what team you are and where you are, who your older players," he said. "It's kind of the nature of the sport we play."
Also, given the various controversies surrounding Kaepernick, he too, has become the subject of trade rumors. But now that he's a starter, the attention has been shifted to Gabbert, who is reportedly not happy after he was demoted to backup QB.
