Michael Crabtree remains on the market as the NFL Draft draws near. The wide receiver is currently the best player on the market and has taken several visits during his time in free agency, but has yet to sign anywhere as many speculate what the issue is. Crabtree took a visit to the Miami Dolphins and Oakland Raiders, but money demands could be halting contract offers. However, the San Francisco 49ers have not ruled out a potential return of Crabtree at the right price.
According to CSN Bay Area, general manager Trent Baalke is open to the idea of bringing Crabtree back. Baalke simply said the franchise was exploring all options, but team sources report that if Crabtree keeps his demands reasonable, a return to San Francisco is certainly not out of the question just yet. The 49ers have been keeping their eye on the developing open market at the receiver position as well as scouting several prospects in the draft.
According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Media, Crabtree is content on taking his time in free agency. The wide receiver is in no rush to sign, hoping to get as much money in his next contract as possible. Rapoport reports that contract demands are an issue. The Miami Dolphins offered the receiver $3 million annually and he turned it down. Now, Rapoport writes that Crabtree is taking a trip to the Oakland Raiders, a team that can afford to give him more money.
The 49ers are hoping to add one more target along the sidelines for Colin Kaepernick to work with. The team signed Torrey Smith to a contract and has Anquan Boldin. They also have Bruce Ellington and Jerome Simpson, but getting someone a bit younger in the mix would certainly help. According to ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr, San Francisco could be an option for a top wide receiver including Amari Cooper, Kevin White and DeVante Parker. All three receivers would be ready to start immediately if drafted.
The 49ers bringing back Crabtree feels unlikely. The Raiders are putting on a hard sell of the wide receiver as they are desperate for a top down-field threat. Oakland has the means to offer more money, likely leaving the 49ers out of the race.
