49ers Trade for Keenan Allen From Colts

The San Francisco 49ers acquired veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen from the Indianapolis Colts on Tuesday. The NFL trade deadline passed earlier in the day. In exchange, the rebuilding Colts received a sixth-round selection in the 2027 draft.

This deal marks the second transaction between these two franchises in three weeks. The teams previously swapped defensive tackle DeForest Buckner to San Francisco on October 27. Allen becomes the third veteran player traded away by Indianapolis in recent weeks, following Buckner and guard Quenton Nelson.

Injuries have weakened the 49ers receiving corps all season. Ricky Pearsall was placed on injured reserve in training camp after knee surgery. The team has also managed issues with Mike Evans, Deebo Samuel, Demarcus Robinson, De'Zhaun Stribling, and Christian Kirk. Evans is dealing with Achilles tendonitis, while Samuel manages a hamstring issue.

Allen, 34, played college football at the University of California. He enters this season as a six-time Pro Bowler with 1,095 career receptions. That total ranks eighth in NFL history. He is seven catches behind Cris Carter for the seventh spot on the all-time list.

The 34-year-old led the Colts in receptions this season with 40 catches. His experience fits the 49ers offensive strategy, which relies heavily on older players. ESPN Research data shows the 49ers have logged the most offensive snaps from players aged 30 or older this season. That total stands at 2,943 snaps.

The team has also scored the most offensive touchdowns from that age group, with 25 points. Three players aged 33 or older who have surpassed 300 receiving yards this season are on the 49ers roster. They include Allen, Evans, and tight end George Kittle. This depth provides reliable options for quarterback Brock Purdy.

Demarcus Robinson returned from injured reserve last week against the Las Vegas Raiders. Deebo Samuel is expected to return to practice on Wednesday. Second-year receiver Jordan Watkins recorded four catches for 86 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's game against Las Vegas. The 49ers must make a corresponding roster move to create space for Allen. If cleared to play, Allen will face the Cowboys for the second consecutive week. He had four receptions for 26 yards against Dallas in Week 9.