O.J. Howard trade rumors: 5 Teams that should deal with Buccaneers

2. San Francisco 49ers

O.J. Howard would be more of a luxury than a necessity for the San Francisco 49ers, but it could take their offense to new heights and give Kyle Shanahan increased flexibility with his scheme. Last season, the 49ers fielded multiple tight ends approximately 35 percent of the time. However, this number is skewed towards the lower end of the spectrum, as Kyle Juszczyk was often able to act as a tight end despite being labeled a fullback.

While the 49ers already have a top-three tight end in George Kittle on the roster, who’s to say they shouldn’t grab another great pass-catching tight end? After all, teams like the Eagles, Vikings, and Ravens have spent high draft capital on tight ends in the past despite having an above-average starter at the position already on the roster.

Given how much the 49ers like to run the ball and the loss of Emmanuel Sanders this offseason, San Francisco can surely use a weapon that can multitask as a run supporter and pass-catching threat. Ross Dwelley may have done well in relief of Kittle last season, but most of his success came against the much-maligned Cardinals defense. The 49ers could certainly use an upgrade over Dwelley.

It may not be a need, but giving Shanahan an added, versatile piece to his complicated scheme could make this offense incredibly dangerous. The 49ers might need to trade down from their late first-round pick to obtain the necessary draft capital for an O.J. Howard deal, but it could be a worthwhile endeavor to field two tight ends that can lineup anywhere in the formation.