The San Francisco 49ers have been in the headlines this week thanks to the trade request from veteran wide receiver Jauan Jennings. The former Tennessee Volunteers standout made it known right before training camp that he wants a new long-term deal or a trade.
While it remains to be seen what will come of that demand from Jennings, one of his former teammates in San Francisco is still searching for his next home in the NFL. With each passing day, the veteran's chances of signing a deal that gets him on a roster for their full training camp get slimmer.
Former 49ers WR Richie James Still Without a Job Entering Camp
The Niners drafted former Middle Tennessee State University wideout Richie James with the No. 240 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. James stuck with San Francisco through the 2021 season and saw action in 40 games, including 10 starts.
Despite making a name for himself in the return game, James performed quite well on offense as he racked up 639 receiving yards and three touchdowns during his tenure in the Bay Area. That type of versatility could be his best attribute when it comes to selling himself to other franchises in hopes of securing a new deal.
Ultimately, injuries were what cut short his time with the Niners, as James was waived after undergoing knee surgery in August 2021. His story didn't end there, though, as the wideout bounced back with a career year as a member of the New York Giants in 2022. The injury bug bit James again during the 2023 season; however. He only managed to see the field in nine games after signing with the Kansas City Chiefs.
At 29 years old, James should still have plenty to offer an NFL franchise. Whether he gets the opportunity to do so, however, is something that Niners fans don't have the answer to.