In a significant move, the San Francisco 49ers have secured veteran wide receiver Christian Kirk on a one-year deal worth $6 million. This agreement comes as the team seeks to enhance its receiving corps ahead of the upcoming season.
Deal Announcement and Background
A reliable source revealed that the contract was finalized on Monday, although the team has yet to make an official announcement. The Schultz Report initially broke the news of this signing. Kirk, 29, joins the 49ers following another addition to the wide receiver group, six-time Pro Bowler Mike Evans, who signed a three-year contract worth $42.5 million last week.
Kirk’s Career Overview
- Drafted by Arizona in 2018 as a second-round pick.
- Notable free agency signing in 2022 with a four-year, $72 million contract from Jacksonville.
- Set career highs in 2022 with 84 receptions, 1,108 yards, and eight touchdowns.
Unfortunately, Kirk’s performance has declined in recent years, partly due to injuries. Over the last three seasons with Jacksonville and Houston, he has missed 18 games. His injuries have included issues with his groin, collarbone, and hamstring.
Recent Performance and Playoff Highlights
Last offseason, Jacksonville traded Kirk to Houston. In his year with the Texans, he recorded only 28 receptions for a career-low 239 yards and one touchdown. His average of 8.5 yards per reception ranked 89th out of 94 wide receivers with at least 25 catches last season.
However, Kirk did show glimpses of his earlier potential during the playoffs, with a standout performance of eight catches for 144 yards and a touchdown against Pittsburgh, followed by another touchdown catch in a loss to New England.
Implications for the 49ers’ Receiver Group
The addition of Kirk is expected to strengthen the 49ers’ receiving options. Mike Evans will take a prominent role as a starter, alongside Ricky Pearsall, who had an impressive start to his second season in 2025 but faced injury setbacks. The team also features veteran receiver Demarcus Robinson, along with recent draft picks Jacob Cowing and Jordan Watkins.
Notably, the 49ers are set to part ways with former No. 1 receiver Brandon Aiyuk. Aiyuk has been on the reserve/left squad list after failing to attend rehabilitation for a knee injury sustained in October 2024. The team previously voided approximately $27 million in guaranteed money owed to Aiyuk this season.
