In October 2022, the San Francisco 49ers executed what many consider to be one of the most significant NFL trades in recent history. They traded a second, a third, and a fourth-round pick to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for superstar running back Christian McCaffrey. This trade has proven to be highly successful, as McCaffrey had a stellar first full season with the team in 2023. He was named the NFL Offensive Player of the Year, led the league in rushing yards, earned a Pro Bowl selection, and received first-team All-Pro honors. Additionally, McCaffrey played a pivotal role in his team’s achievements, including winning a division and a conference title, and now stands on the brink of a Super Bowl appearance.
Interestingly, according to team CEO Jed York, the rival Los Angeles Rams played a role, albeit indirectly, in McCaffrey ending up in San Francisco. During Super Bowl Week interviews, York recalled the deliberations between himself and 49ers GM John Lynch regarding the trade. York vividly remembered the discussions about whether the compensation offered for McCaffrey was appropriate. There was a collective consideration of whether they wanted McCaffrey to join the Rams, which influenced their decision-making process.
While the Rams were also pursuing McCaffrey, it’s likely that the 49ers would have pursued the trade regardless of the Rams’ interest. The 49ers viewed McCaffrey as the missing piece in their Super Bowl aspirations, and many NFL teams were vying for his talents. However, York’s revelation adds a bittersweet element for Rams fans, knowing that their team’s pursuit of McCaffrey could have inadvertently aided the 49ers in securing one of the league’s top offensive players.
