Ryan Clark bizarrely wants 49ers to trade Christian McCaffrey despite Deebo Samuel’s loss
The San Francisco 49ers have completed third decades since they last won a Super Bowl in 1994 against the San Diego Chargers.

Christian McCaffrey, Ryan Clark (images via ESPN/BOTWC)
The San Francisco 49ers are making some questionable and bold moves this offseason. They are reshaping their roster with a series of cost-cutting decisions.
The recent moves have seen many important players like Deebo Samuel, Dre Greenlaw, and many others bidding adieu to the Niners. This is likely to focus on a financial reset as quarterback Brock Purdy’s contract looms.
As the Niners continue to stack upon these moves, former player-turned-analyst Ryan Clark has a very new and shocking take. Speaking on Get Up, Clark admitted that the 49ers should take an even more drastic step by trading Christian McCaffrey.
He argued that if the 49ers are going through a reset, they should commit fully to it. McCaffrey was named Offensive Player of the Year, but Clark noted that trading him would benefit the team in the long run.
I would absolutely trade Christian McCaffrey, and I would try to get as much as I could possibly get for him… If you’re going to rebuild, rebuild completely
Ryan Clark said
Clark noted that San Francisco has already parted ways with key pieces of its offense. The team released fullback Kyle Juszczyk, who had been with them for eight seasons. Juszczyk was a vital part of the 49ers’ offensive versatility. Clark argued that without him, McCaffrey’s role would become less effective in Shanahan’s system.
He further explained that moving on from McCaffrey would allow the team to invest in other areas. He mentioned Ricky Pearsall as one player who could see more opportunities. Clark suggested that the assets gained from a McCaffrey trade could help the 49ers reshape their offense for a more sustainable future. He also pointed out that McCaffrey struggled with availability last season due to injuries.
Ryan Clark on GET UP said that San Francisco 49ers should consider trading 2023 Offensive Player of the Year RB Christian McCaffrey
— FirstSportz NFL (@FirstSportz_NFL) March 12, 2025
"I would absolutely trade Christian McCaffrey. … If you're going to rebuild, rebuild completely." 👀pic.twitter.com/8paFmn5rt8
Ryan Clark’s comments have sparked a debate on the San Francisco 49ers’ next moves
Ryan Clark’s comments have sparked debate among analysts and fans. Christian McCaffrey is one of the most dynamic players in the league. His ability to run, catch, and make plays in open space is rare. Some believe that trading him would be a mistake. They argue that he is a unique talent who elevates the team’s offense.

Others agree with Clark’s perspective. They believe that if the 49ers are committed to a full rebuild, trading McCaffrey makes sense. He is one of their most valuable assets and moving him could bring in multiple draft picks or young players to build for the future. However, the popular opinion could be stemming from the fact that McCaffrey’s absence has led to people forgetting his abilities.
San Francisco’s offseason moves indicate a major shift. The team has already traded star receiver Deebo Samuel. They also lost key defensive players Talanoa Hufanga and Dre Greenlaw in free agency. The roster is undergoing significant changes, and they could complete the transition by trading McCaffrey.
As the offseason continues, all eyes will be on San Francisco. Will they take Clark’s advice and trade McCaffrey? Will they pay Brock Purdy to a new record deal? Only time will tell how this new chapter unfolds for the 49ers.