The San Francisco 49ers shocked their fans today by bringing back a familiar face – wide receiver Chris Conley. Conley was a midseason signing for the 49ers last year and brought a veteran presence to the wide receiver room. Although he only had 3 catches in 8 games, Conley made his mark in other ways. He was a leader and mentor for the young receivers, showing them how to be professionals on and off the field. In this article we talk about how 49ers Shock fans—beloved WR returns in a stunning free agency move.
Conley’s Return Bolsters 49ers
The 49ers have a young and talented receiver group led by Brandon Aiyuk and Jauan Jennings. However, they lacked experience and leadership at the position outside of veteran Deebo Samuel. That’s where the return of Conley comes in. At 31 years old and entering his 10th NFL season, he provides leadership, wisdom and a knowledge of Kyle Shanahan’s complex offense.
Despite his meager stats with the 49ers in 2023, Conley has shown flashes of high level play during his career. Drafted in the 3rd round by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2015, he became a significant contributor right away. During his 4 seasons in Kansas City, Conley averaged over 500 yards receiving per year. His best season came in 2016 when he had 530 yards on 44 catches with 6 touchdowns.
After hitting free agency in 2019, Conley signed a lucrative deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He became their number two receiver behind DJ Chark and posted career highs in receptions (47) and yards (775) in 2019. While his production dipped in 2020, he provided a reliable target for quarterbacks Gardner Minshew and Mike Glennon.
Conley’s Versatile Value:
The veteran receiver then made stops in Houston, Tennessee and San Francisco before returning to the 49ers now. While he may not put up the stats he once did, Conley provides value in other ways for San Francisco. He is a reliable route runner who rarely makes mental mistakes. His work ethic and commitment to preparation is second to none.
Most importantly, Conley brings leadership to the receivers room. As the 49ers make another Super Bowl push, his veteran presence will be key to guiding the young players. Players like Aiyuk, Jennings and Ray-Ray McCloud will benefit immensely from Conley’s wisdom.
Conley’s Impact:
The 49ers offense was one of the most explosive units in the NFL last season. Adding Conley likely won’t make them more dynamic, but it does make them smarter. His understanding of Shanahan’s complex schemes will rub off on the young players. They will be able to take their games to another level mentally.
While fans may have wanted a bigger name signing at receiver, they should be excited about Conley. He probably won’t stuff the stat sheet or make highlight reel catches. What he will do is provide leadership, a strong work ethic and football intelligence. For a young receiver group hoping to make the next step, that is invaluable.
Conley has talked openly about how close this 49ers group was last season. The brotherhood and culture is part of what attracted him back to San Francisco. After losing in the NFC Championship Game last year, Conley wants to finish the job this season.
The 49ers will be one of the top Super Bowl contenders in the NFC yet again. With the majority of last year’s playmakers returning, the chemistry and experience will be much improved. Adding a leader like Conley, albeit in a backup role, only strengthens those bonds.
The Verdict
While it may not be the most exciting signing, bringing back Conley is a smart move by the 49ers front office. For a team so close to winning it all last season, his veteran presence could be what puts them over the top. The young receivers will improve by learning from a consummate professional like Conley.
So while fans may have wanted a big name receiver added, they should be happy to see number 18 back in red and gold. In addition to his receiving and return abilities, Chris Conley brings leadership, intelligence and championship experience. For a 49ers team with Super Bowl aspirations, that is extremely valuable. So don’t sleep on this subtle signing, it may prove absolutely crucial come playoff time next season. I sincerely hope you find this “49ers Shock Fans- Beloved WR Returns in Stunning Free Agency Move” article helpful.
