You reap what you sow.
Former All-Pro cornerback Richard Sherman detailed why he believes Jauan Jennings’ dispute surrounding his 49ers future is a byproduct of recent contract sagas in San Francisco during a segment on “The Richard Sherman Podcast.”
Over the last few summers, San Francisco had to resolve contract drama for stars such as Trent Williams, Brandon Aiyuk, Nick Bosa and Deebo Samuel.
“It does seem like this has just set a precedent for the 49ers because, every year, someone has done it,” Sherman said.
“Whether it was when big Trent wanted more money, he deserves it as the best tackle in football. He held out and did what he had to do for his money. Nicholas John Bosa, coming off Defensive Player of the Year, needed his money. He sat out, did what he had to do and got his money. Brandon Aiyuk last year.”
Sherman, as a former player, naturally supports Jennings’ ultimatum regarding his contract.
“It’s sad, not sad because of Jauan. Jauan deserves what he deserves,” Sherman added. “He had almost 1,000 yards last season. Seventy-seven catches. Did a great job and does all the dirty work: run blocking, pass blocking.
“Whatever needs to be done, he’s willing to do. I think he would thrive if he was the No. 2 receiver for somebody and was getting targets like the way he deserves.”
Last May, Jennings signed a two-year, $15.4 million 49ers contract extension through the 2025 NFL season after logging a career-best 2024 campaign.
The four-year pro, who is projected to be an integral part of the 49ers offense with both Aiyuk and Ricky Pearsall on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list ahead of training camp, recorded 77 receptions for 975 yards and six touchdowns in 2024.
Sherman doesn’t expect general manager John Lynch to cave in and give Jennings more money, but he does expect a strategic move to be made to calm the waters in Santa Clara.
“I think they might do something,” Sherman concluded. “I don’t think they give him any more money. I think they may take some of the money from year two and try to push it forward, so they can at least try to appease him.
“But I think you have to do something because you don’t want another distraction kind of lingering into the season.”
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