The San Francisco 49ers have retained Anquan Boldin for a few more years and they have Michael Crabtree returning healthy after missing much of last season to a ruptured Achilles. However, that is not stopping to the team from continuing their search for another wide receiver to round out the rotation. As free agency continues, the team is hosting several big names before the weekend.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Hakeem Nicks is scheduled to visit the team either Friday or over the weekend. Nicks is gaining a fair amount of attention on the market, but could end up coming pretty cheap for any team looking to sign him. After not recording a single touchdown in 2013 while facing several injuries, Nicks is not in position to demand big money.
The 49ers appear to be targeting players they believe could sign for cheap despite them believing they are No. 1 guys. San Francisco is also bringing in Julian Edelman for a visit. He is going through free agency with the mindset that he is a top receiver for a team and wants to get paid like one. The 49ers might not be willing to meet his demands considering they do not need a No. 1 guy with Boldin and Crabtree.
Schefter reports that Steve Smith could be the best option for the 49ers if they do not want to get into a bidding war with anyone. Nicks is making his way from team to team as the Indianapolis Colts and Carolina Panthers have expressed interest in the wide receiver. Edelman is being heavily pursued by the Patriots to return to the team. The Cleveland Browns are also in the mix.
Smith would be a solid fit for the 49ers. He is a No. 3 receiver at best. He has the veteran knowledge and leadership to help young players and can still be a reliable threat for quarterback Colin Kaepernick. Smith will not demand an outrageous contract. While the veteran is hopeful to receive a multi-year deal after his release from the Panthers, signing with a contending team like the 49ers could overshadow any money amount.
