New York Jets star Garrett Wilson is emerging as one of the most intriguing wide receivers connected to the NFL trade deadline, with both the Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers identified as potential landing spots by CBS Sports. Both contenders have clear reasons to pursue another receiver, making Wilson a particularly fascinating name to monitor as the Nov. 10 deadline approaches.
Chiefs could desperately use another receiver
Kansas City has dealt with significant injuries at wide receiver, and the problem became especially obvious during the Chiefs’ Week 7 loss to Seattle. The offense managed only three points in the defeat, while Kansas City’s wide receivers combined for just six catches and 39 yards.
Tyquan Thornton is on injured reserve, while Rashee Rice has been sidelined with a hamstring injury. Although Rice is expected to return at some point, the Chiefs could still benefit from adding another high-end option for Patrick Mahomes.
Wilson would immediately give Kansas City another proven playmaker capable of creating separation and producing after the catch. The 26-year-old has 37 receptions for 444 yards and three touchdowns through seven games this season.
The potential fit goes beyond 2026, as well. Wilson is under contract through 2030, giving the Chiefs an opportunity to acquire a young receiver who could remain a major part of the offense for years.
49ers have their own reason to pursue Wilson
San Francisco also has a compelling need at wide receiver after injuries began catching up with the team during its Week 7 loss to Atlanta. The 49ers were forced to rely heavily on Jordan Watkins, Jacob Cowing and Brandin Cooks with Deebo Samuel Jr. and Mike Evans sidelined.
The situation could improve with the bye week providing additional recovery time, but adding Wilson would give Brock Purdy another elite option regardless of who returns.
CBS Sports identified the 49ers as one of the teams that could make sense for Wilson, while CBS News Bay Area’s Matt Lively noted that acquiring the Jets star could require a significant price, potentially including a first-round pick or multiple picks.
The biggest question is whether the Jets would actually move Wilson. New York previously viewed him as part of its future, and he recently signed a contract keeping him under team control through 2030. However, his visible frustration with the offense during Sunday’s loss to Miami has added fuel to the trade speculation. Wilson said afterward that his frustration was directed at the red-zone play-calling rather than quarterback Geno Smith.
If the Jets decide to listen to offers, Wilson could quickly become one of the biggest names available before the deadline.
