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The 49ers wide receiver position has been a bit of a problem thus far, but things are clearing up as we approach the return of some injured players. Wide receiver in general is creating plenty of buzz with some Josh Gordon trade rumors mixed in.
Michael Crabtree injury rehab
49ers head coach Jim Harbaugh met with the media Monday, and he provided a bit of an update on the status of wide receiver Michael Crabtree. Harbaugh said that Crabtree is currently on track for a return in mid-to-late November. This is not exactly shocking news, but it's good to hear some confirmation that Crabtree's rehab remains on track.
Harbaugh indicated he felt Crabtree could be back in game-shape at this point. Starting next week, the 49ers have five weeks to get Crabtree back to practice. After that, they would have an additional three weeks to activate him. That takes them into December, which seems to more than cover Crabtree's return.
Josh Gordon trade rumors
Adam Schefter reported that the 49ers and Cleveland Browns had discussed a potential trade for wide receiver Josh Gordon. Schefter tweeted that the teams had talked, but a deal was unlikely with Manningham due back soon, and Michael Crabtree potentially coming back in November.
Ian Rapoport is reporting the Browns are looking for a second round pick in any deal. It is an intriguing idea given Gordon's talent. Of course, he has had off-the-field issues and very well could get himself into trouble again. Is it worth rolling the dice that he'll keep his head on straight? And are the 49ers comfortable enough with the return of Manningham and eventually Crabtree to not do this kind of deal?
Percy Harvin injury rehab
The Seahawks wide receiver is also close to returning. He is on the PUP list rehabbing a hip injury and sent out this tweet today:
12th man im back and ready....countdown begins
— Percy Harvin (@Percy_Harvin) October 7, 2013
Harvin is on a fairly aggressive rehab process, but it sounds like he could back at it as soon as next week. The Seahawks offense has been solid enough thus far, but adding Harvin would give them a huge boost heading into the second half of the season.