The San Francisco 49ers have made a notable addition to their roster by signing wide receiver Robbie Chosen. The seasoned wideout last played for the Miami Dolphins, though he did not make any game appearances in 2023. Chosen's career has taken him through stints with the New York Jets, Carolina Panthers, and Arizona Cardinals, showcasing a wealth of experience that the 49ers hope will bring depth and leadership to their receiving corps.
At 31 years old, Robbie Chosen's most prolific season came in 2020, when he notched his only 1,000-yard campaign. That standout year saw him surpass 519 yards for the last time, demonstrating his potential to be a significant playmaker. During his tenure with the Dolphins, he caught four passes for 126 yards and a touchdown, a glimpse of the talent he possesses even though he did not get much playing time last season.
The 49ers' move to secure Chosen comes amidst a backdrop of turbulence and potential changes within their receiving unit. Star receiver Brandon Aiyuk has been "holding in" during training camp as he seeks a contract extension, a development that has already spurred trade discussions involving the Pittsburgh Steelers, Cleveland Browns, and New England Patriots. Despite the buzz, no trade deal has materialized yet.
Aiyuk's request for a trade stems from a desire for a new contract following an impressive 2023 season. Aiyuk earned second-team All-Pro honors with 75 catches for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns on 105 targets. This marked his second consecutive 1,000-yard season, solidifying his status as one of the league's top emerging talents. If a trade were to happen, Robbie Chosen would find himself in a rotation behind Deebo Samuel that includes Jauan Jennings and Ricky Pearsall.
While Chosen's recent numbers don't quite match Aiyuk's high standards, his addition is seen as a strategic move to add stability and veteran leadership to the 49ers' lineup. Chosen himself expressed his enthusiasm and gratitude for joining a team with such a storied past and promising future. "Blessed and thankful. Dream come true; more to become," Chosen told NFL reporter Josina Anderson. "This is an opportunity to be a part of greatness and go win a Super Bowl. There's greatness all around me here, from what's been done, what exists and will be the future."
The 49ers' signing of Robbie Chosen signals a proactive approach to fortifying their squad amid potential roster shifts. As the team maneuvers through the complexities of Aiyuk's contract situation, having a capable and experienced player like Chosen on board could prove invaluable. This move not only addresses immediate needs but also sets the stage for a season where the 49ers aim to blend established talent with promising prospects to achieve their Super Bowl aspirations.