The San Francisco 49ers were outmatched at home by Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday afternoon, falling 31-17.
Burrow completed 28-of-32 passes for 283 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions against San Francisco’s traditionally strong defense. Overall, Cincinnati totaled 400 yards of offense and 29 first downs.
Following the game, 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan was asked how the team’s setback on Sunday will affect their plans ahead of the NFL trade deadline on Tuesday. His remark was quite intriguing.
“Nothing changes with the trade deadline,” Shanahan said to reporters. “How we played tonight or during the last three weeks… I believe we have the solutions in our facility. I feel we have some talented guys. I believe we have competent coaches. It is my responsibility to persuade them to do better.”
San Francisco started the season on a roll, winning five straight games. However, the club has suffered significantly after its rout of the Dallas Cowboys in Week 5. This includes defeats to the Cleveland Browns, Minnesota Vikings, and the aforementioned Bengals.
It’s no coincidence that second-year quarterback Brock Purdy has turned the ball over six times during this three-game losing streak after going five games without throwing an interception.
NFL trade deadline ideas for the San Francisco 49ers
Despite Shanahan’s comments on Sunday afternoon, San Francisco is expected to remain active ahead of Tuesday’s deadline.
The 49ers are looking for a couple components, according to Diana Russini of The Athletic. This involves edge pass rush and cornerback assistance. They have been linked to Washington Commanders running back Chase Young as a possible running companion for reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year Nick Bosa.
Kendall Fuller of the aforementioned Commanders and Carolina Panthers starter Donte Jackson are both viable alternatives at cornerback.
Teams are also contacting the Denver Broncos about third-year All-Pro cornerback Patrick Surtain II. Obviously, active general manager John Lynch is among those who have made contact with Denver. A deal of this magnitude, however, appears exceedingly implausible.
