49ers could add speed for Jimmy Garoppolo in former first-round wideout

The 49ers are bringing in Tavon Austin for a workout. 

The 49ers may be looking to add yet another speedy wideout to their deep receiving core. According to Ian Rappoport, they are bringing in former Cowboys and Rams wide receiver Tavon Austin for a workout.

After losing Emmanuel Sanders to the Saints in free agency, the 49ers went out and drafted Brandon Aiyuk in the first round, a receiver out of Arizona State who has elite speed.

The 49ers also lost Marquise Goodwin to the Eagles this offseason, yet another fast receiver. Kyle Shanahan clearly sees value in speed at the receiver position and is trying vigorously to replace Goodwin and his speed in 2020.

Earlier this offseason, they signed Travis Benjamin, another player who’s game is built around his top-end speed. However, he has decided to opt out of the 2020 season.

Austin would likely be a direct replacement for Benjamin. Like Benjamin, Austin is a solid return man who can do some damage in the passing game.

Austin hasn’t lived up to his lofty expectations

Since being drafted eighth overall in 2013, Tavon Austin has been a major disappointment in the NFL. His highest receiving yard total came in 2016 when he finished with 509 yards.

Austin was an absolute monster in college at West Virginia. In his final year, he totaled 1,932 yards from scrimmage and 16 total touchdowns. Austin was a difference maker in the passing, rushing and return games, but hasn’t been able to replicate that in the NFL.

If the 49ers do end up bringing him in, he’ll get to be a part of one of the most exciting and innovative offenses in the league. Shanahan will undoubtedly be able to get the most out of Austin, which he seems to be able to do with all of his offensive weapons.