The 49ers are embracing their mature wide receiver room.
After trading for Keenan Allen, San Francisco’s top three receivers are all 30 years or older. General manager John Lynch unknowingly created a new slogan for aging players in the NFL — 35 is the new 30.
“I don’t think that’s like a conscious thing. We’re not saying let’s go find every old guy. We feel like it’s a good mix because we have those vets,” Lynch said on KNBR.
“I do think there’s some level of 35 is the new 30, so these guys are taking such great care of themselves.”
Ironically, the 49ers were originally interested in acquiring former Colts wide receiver Josh Downs, who is 25 years old. But San Francisco ultimately pivoted to the six-time Pro Bowler.
Lynch revealed 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan wondering about Allen’s availability served as the catalyst for the trade getting done.
“Kyle and I are kind of watching Josh [Downs] and in the process, Kyle’s like, ‘What about Keenan?’ I hadn’t given much thought to that, but then I’m like let me ask,” Lynch said.
“It’s always fluid and at a certain time they didn’t want to give him up.”
Indianapolis was initially reluctant to part ways with Allen, but the 49ers have now added another veteran to the wide receiver room.
The 49ers wanted to have ample options at the position, which led to the trade for Allen. Lynch said the veteran is not an insurance policy for Mike Evans, who is dealing
“We wanted to make an add there, nonetheless,” Lynch said.
Nowadays, it seems like the requirement to be a 49ers wide receiver includes being in your 30s.
