Marqise Lee Free-Agent Destinations After Release From 49ers

It's safe to say that Marqise Lee's tenure with the San Francisco 49ers was a lot shorter than he anticipated.

The 2014 second-round pick was released from the 49ers on Friday after signing a deal with the team on May 17. Lee has barely been seen on the football field since 2017, having played just six games in the following three seasons due to injuries and a COVID-19 opt-out. Now, he has to hope that another team is willing to take a flyer on him.

Here's a look at the most likely free-agent destinations for Lee.

Marqise Lee Release

3. New Orleans Saints

As the New Orleans Saints prepare for life without Drew Brees, they could use some more pass-catching depth to make life easier on whoever the next No. 1 quarterback is. Lee was never a big-play wideout, but he did hit 700-plus receiving yards in 2016 and 2017. Assuming he can get back to that level, he'd look great in New Orleans. Right now, Michael Thomas' only help is really Tre'Quan Smith, so it's safe to say that another wide receiver would be more than welcome.

2. Detroit Lions

Heading into the 2021 NFL season, the Detroit Lions receiving core consists of Breshad Perriman, Tyrell Williams and... that's about it. They do have some exciting young players, like 2021fourth-round pick Amon-Ra St. Brown, but he's unproven at the NFL level. That's why it makes sense to take a chance on Lee. Sure, he won't singlehandedly bring a winning season to Detroit, but the veteran could help guide his fellow receivers. Plus, it takes some pressure off of the younger wideouts.

1. Cincinnati Bengals

In a season where the Cincinnati Bengals are ready to take the next step, they'd be wise to sign some veteran depth. While there's no doubt that Ja'Marr Chase, Tyler Boyd and Tee Higgins are the team's "Big 3" wideouts, there's very little depth beyond Auden Tate. Considering how Lee's only played six games since 2017, his contract should be extremely cheap with very little risk involved. At the end of the day, he'd be able to mentor some of the young Bengals receivers while contributing in a rotational role.

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