RSS 49ers Team Notes

[San Francisco 49ers]

One veteran safety the 49ers should monitor this offseason

MIAMI GARDENS, FL - OCTOBER 30: Minkah Fitzpatrick #29 of the Miami Dolphins lines up before the snap during an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens at Hard Rock Stadium on October 30, 2025 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Miami Dolphins made several moves this week to change the roster. Tyreek Hill was among a couple of players who got the pink slip, along with Bradley Chubb, while Tua Tagovailoa is likely up next.

The fire sale taking place has cast doubts about the safety of Minkah Fitzpatrick’s future with the organization. Fitzpatrick, 30, is entering the final year of his deal. The 8-year veteran has a cap number of $18.8 million. Earlier this week, NFL Insider Jordan Schutlz said the Dolphins are fielding calls from “multiple teams” for Fitzpatrick’s services.

Miami has little leverage at this juncture. Teams trading for Fitzpatrick would likely only need to give up a conditional Day 3 pick, given his age, contract, and the situation.

The San Francisco 49ers need a safety who can contribute right away. Upgrading from the starters last season wouldn’t be difficult by using a pick early in the draft, but there’s no guarantee the rookie will transition and be ready Day 1. That’s where Fitzpatrick comes into play.

Teams might wait to see whether the Dolphins release Fitzpatrick, but if he’s a player you covet and believe can improve your roster, sending a draft pick is worth it.

Fitzpatrick did suffer a calf strain in 2025 that kept him from playing in the final three games of the season. He didn’t miss any games in 2024, but missed four games in 2023 due to a hamstring strain and the final three games of that season due to a knee injury.

As far as the player goes, we’re talking about one of the best to play the position since Kyle Shanahan has been a head coach. Fitzpatrick had six tackles for loss last season, five pass breakups, while allowing a completion percentage of 56. He’s seen it all, and the processing Fitzpatrick displays supports that.

Fitzpatrick can line up all over the place, which is necessary in today’s day and age. During the first half of the season, the Dolphins used Fitzpatrick as the high safety 50 percent of the time, compared to around 27 percent in the slot. During the final seven games, Fitzpatrick was used 45 percent in the slot, and only 32.5 percent as the high safety.

Overall, Fitzpatrick lined up at free safety for 333 snaps, in the slot 289 snaps, as a linebacker 97 snaps, on the edge 43 times, and another four as a box safety. Fitzpatrick would allow Malik Mustapha to stay in the box.

He was at his best statistically as a high safety, allowing a passer rating of 50.5. His knowledge could also go a long way with Mustapha, Ji’Ayir Brown, Marques Sigle, and whichever other safety the team elects to draft.

It would make sense for the 49ers to add a veteran in the secondary this season, so the team isn’t making the rookie-type mistakes they did in 2025. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better veteran than Fitzpatrick if the Dolphins make him available.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...afety-the-49ers-should-monitor-this-offseason

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

49ers offensive lineman had worst pressure rate at position in 2025

When it comes to the San Francisco 49ers, the offensive line has long been a topic of conversation, with many being unhappy with the investment at the position in the draft.

Still, the position group has done well and posted a quality season in 2025, with several starters performing at or above their contracts. Trent Williams turned in another good year in his age-37 season, while Colton McKivitz and Jake Brendel were both quality starters for the 49ers. Dominick Puni was good as well, but saw his ups and downs battling injuries.

The one position that was a key issue was left guard. The 49ers went into the season with Ben Bartch as their projected starter, despite him only playing eight games in the previous two years. Unfortunately, Bartch got hurt in Week 2, forcing a change there. Rookie Connor Colby took over but was pulled in favor of Spencer Burford after some early struggles. Burford ended up making nine starts at the position and playing 11 games, but he was also very inconsistent.

In fact, according to analyst Daniel Rotman, Burford had the worst pressure rate among all 32 starters at left guard this season at 7.89 percent.

Guard (LG & RG) Pressure Rate (%):

1. #Bears LG J. Thuney (2.19%)
2. #Panthers D. Lewis (2.20%)
3. #Colts Q. Nelson (2.35%)
4. Full list below…

2025 Regular Season pic.twitter.com/DQYCytrGF9

— Daniel Rotman (@daniel_rotman15) February 19, 2026

While the 49ers likely won’t make many changes to their offensive line with the four other starters projected to return, upgrading at left guard should be a priority this offseason.

San Francisco may need more depth across the board as Trent Williams will be 38, while Jake Brendel will be 34, but the most pressing need is at left guard. The 49ers haven’t looked to spend much on a free agent recently, instead looking more at in-house candidates or the draft to fill spots along the offensive line.

Dominick Puni was a third-round pick, but Brendel and Colton McKivitz were both players who were initially backups with the 49ers before transitioning into a starting role. Of course, Trent Williams was the big swing the team made via trade, but even that didn’t come at nearly the cost you’d expect for a player of his caliber.

The 49ers have seven projected picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, so that could be an avenue for improvement, but there will also be some options in free agency, such as David Edwards, Connor McGovern, Alijah Vera-Tucker, Wyatt Teller, Teven Jenkins, and others.

But it makes sense to make a change after the inconsistencies we saw at left guard in 2026.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...cer-burford-worst-pressure-rate-kyle-shanahan

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

49ers Draft Rewind: 2017 – yeah, but they got George Kittle

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 03: Iowa tight end George Kittle answers questions to members of the press during the NFL Scouting Combine on March 3, 2017 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN. (Photo by Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

It’s that time again, when we look at the previous drafts of the San Francisco 49ers and reflect. We’re lucky to have video of each draft, thanks to YouTube poster and 49ers fan Marvin49. We’ll look at every year of the Kyle Shanahan era through 2025. Today it’s 2017.

Wow. Nine years.

Nine years since Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch took over a franchise that was drifting somewhere between irrelevant and dysfunctional. Trent Baalke was out. Jed York handed Shanahan and Lynch six-year deals and essentially said, “Fix it.”

The 2017 draft was the first real swing of the new regime. It aged…weirdly. Which, as you may know, is the most 49ers thing we can say about a draft class.

Only one player from that class is still a true franchise pillar. But when you consider what the roster looked like when Shanahan walked in the door, even that feels like something.

Let’s start at the top.

The San Francisco 49ers picked second overall and immediately pulled off what remains one of the funniest draft-day trades of the modern era. They fleeced the Chicago Bears, who moved up one spot to take quarterback Mitchell Trubisky. The 49ers stayed patient and took the guy they reportedly wanted all along: Stanford defensive lineman Solomon Thomas.

Thomas’s rookie season had some built-in excuses. Due to outdated league rules, he missed valuable practice time early. His first year felt rookie-ish. His second season was understandably derailed by the tragic suicide of his sister and the toll it took on his mental health.

Did he ever develop into a No. 2 overall impact player?

No.

Thomas tore his ACL in 2020, his final season with the 49ers. He’s carved out a respectable NFL career since. Respectable, meaning he still has a job as of this writing. He’s bouncing around as a rotational defensive lineman. In 2025, he played 16 games for the Dallas Cowboys, starting two, recording 27 total tackles and one pass defended — no sacks. He’s under contract in 2026, though none of it is guaranteed. He’s a veteran depth piece now.

A long NFL career is nothing to sneeze at. But second overall? That’s a different standard.

Then came the trade back into the first round with the Seattle Seahawks to select Alabama linebacker Reuben Foster.

At the time, it looked like a steal. Foster was considered one of the most talented defenders in the draft. Character flags from the Combine and injury concerns caused him to slide, and the 49ers pounced.

On the field, Foster flashed exactly what scouts saw: sideline-to-sideline speed, violent play, true difference-maker traits.

Off the field, it unraveled quickly.

By late 2018, multiple legal issues — including a domestic violence arrest — forced the 49ers to cut ties. Foster bounced around leagues. Yes, plural. As in the NFL, then the USFL, and finally the UFL. The most recent transaction was being claimed by the UFL’s Arlington Renegades in August 2024. There has been no NFL activity since. His career is now more cautionary tale than “what could have been.”

The third round brought cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon.

Witherspoon flashed late in his rookie season and briefly looked like a developmental win. But inconsistency became the theme of his career. When he got benched in the 2019 season during a playoff game against the Minnesota Vikings, you knew it was over—even if he had a superb attitude. In 2025, he played six games for the Los Angeles Rams, starting one. He recorded two passes defended and no interceptions. He tore his shoulder blade in Week 2 against the Tennessee Titans, returned late in the season as reserve depth, then re-injured himself against the Carolina Panthers and was deactivated.

Another person with potential, and showing flashes of it after he left the 49ers, but hitting roadblocks.

Also in the third round: quarterback C.J. Beathard. Maybe the second most important pick of this draft, for the effect it would have in the future.

At the time, the reaction was predictable: “career backup.” He got starts. He got hit. He did what he could. Jimmy Garoppolo quickly took over.

This isn’t about his play on the 49ers, but what happened after he left. His departure netted the 49ers a compensatory pick: the final pick of the 2022 draft. That pick became Brock Purdy.

Beathard hasn’t started a game since 2023 and signed with the Detroit Lions’ practice squad in September 2025. His career has settled into veteran emergency depth territory. But indirectly? He’s part of the Purdy story.

The fourth round brought us Utah running back Joe Williams. Williams begins what is now known as the “pick used to take a running back.” Shanahan loved him. Shanahan insisted on him. The 49ers caved. Like many of these picks through the years, Williams didn’t do much. In fact, he never played a regular-season snap for the 49ers and has been out of football for years.

Now we bring the star of the show in the fifth round. A tight end out of Iowa named George Kittle.

You can say what you want about this draft class. My rebuttal remains the same: yeah, but they got Kittle.

Kittle became one of the best tight ends in football. A blocker. A pass catcher. An emotional tone-setter. He rewrote franchise record books and spent the better part of a decade in the top-five-at-his-position conversation.

In 2025, he signed a contract extension in the offseason. He was injured in Week 1, returned to play 11 games, and still managed 57 receptions for 628 yards and seven touchdowns. His absence was felt, particularly in the run game. Then came the gut punch: a torn Achilles in the playoffs against the Philadelphia Eagles, contributing to a blowout loss that ended the season. That was the injury that broke the camel’s back of injuries through the 2025 season.

Still productive. Still important. But it’s officially fair to begin thinking about what life after Kittle eventually looks like — even if that future is a few years away.

Also in the fifth round, wide receiver Trent Taylor, who returned to the 49ers in April 2024, was released that August, then re-signed to the practice squad. He signed a reserve/futures deal in January 2025 but was placed on injured reserve in June and never activated, effectively ending his season. With Skyy Moore handling return duties in 2025 and now entering free agency, Taylor’s 2026 future remains uncertain.

The sixth round brought defensive tackle D.J. Jones, one of the quieter hits of the Lynch/Shanahan era.

Jones became a wrecking ball in the middle of the defensive line. He left in free agency for the Denver Broncos on a three-year deal with $20 million guaranteed — money the 49ers were never realistically matching. He re-upped with Denver in March 2025 on another three-year extension and is under contract through 2027.

In 2025, he played 16 games (14 starts), recording 39 tackles, six tackles for loss, and three sacks. If only the 49ers had salary.

They found him. They developed him. They just couldn’t afford him. So they were penalized for drafting well. Imagine that.

Seventh-rounder Adrian Colbert joined the Chicago Bears in 2024, was released after the season, and has had no reported NFL activity since. He put a lot of good stuff on tape in his rookie season, but he just couldn’t get over that hump.

Then there’s Pita Taumoepenu, who also cycled out of the league without much impact.

So what is this draft, nine years later? I agree with whatever criticism you throw at it. I’ll also remind you it’s a “yeah, but” and point out the 49ers still got Kittle in this draft.

Pick Breakdown​

Round 1 – Pick 2 – Solomon Thomas, DE, Stanford
Round 1 – Pick 31 – Reuben Foster, LB, Alabama
Round 3 – Pick 66 – Ahkello Witherspoon, CB, Colorado
Round 3 – Pick 104 – C.J. Beathard, QB, Iowa
Round 4 – Pick 121 – Joe Williams, RB, Utah
Round 5 – Pick 146 – George Kittle, TE, Iowa
Round 5 – Pick 177 – Trent Taylor, WR, Louisiana Tech
Round 6 – Pick 198 – D.J. Jones, DT, Ole Miss
Round 6 – Pick 202 – Pita Taumoepenu, DE, Utah
Round 7 – Pick 229 – Adrian Colbert, CB, Miami

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...t-rewind-2017-yeah-but-they-got-george-kittle

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

49ers News: 80 more Sundays until NFL football is back

SANTA CLARA, CA - AUGUST 25: Fred Warner #54 and Brock Purdy #13 of the San Francisco 49ers in the locker room before the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at Levi's Stadium on August 25, 2023 in Santa Clara, California. The Chargers defeated the 49ers 23-12. (Photo by Michael Zagaris/San Francisco 49ers/Getty Images) | Getty Images

KC Concepcion, Zion Young and who else the 49ers could be eyeing at the NFL combine (paywall)
“At 5-foot-11 and 190 pounds, Concepcion profiles as an NFL slot receiver, and his quickness allowed him to create separation against man-to-man coverage — an area in which the 49ers have been lacking — in a three-season career that began with two years at North Carolina State. Last season, Concepcion had 919 receiving yards, averaged 15.1 yards per catch and had nine touchdown catches. He also averaged 18.2 yards on 25 punt returns, including touchdowns of 80 and 79 yards. A reason he could be available near the end of the first round: hands. Concepcion had seven drops in 2025 and 19 in his 185-catch career.

He’s “got elite, elite speed,” Jeremiah said. “He runs away from everybody. He’s got some route polish to him, as well. The thing with him is just the drops. … You’re going to have to live with some of that. But he’s going to give you the explosive plays to go along with it.”

Head coach Kyle Shanahan wants his wide receivers to double as capable run blockers, a reason he typically has preferred bigger-bodied pass catchers than Concepcion. That could make Washington’s Denzel Boston (6-4, 210) more appealing after he had 125 catches, 1,715 yards and 20 touchdowns in his final two college seasons.

Boston has sticky hands, with just five drops on 204 career targets. Jeremiah likens him to Broncos Pro Bowl wideout Courtland Sutton (6-4, 216). Draft analysts have differing opinions about Boston’s speed, which could mean his pre-draft 40-yard dash could significantly impact his draft stock. Jeremiah is among those who believe he’ll run well in the 40, around 4.45 seconds.

Does that sound good? Perhaps too good, because Jeremiah thinks Boston’s speed-size combo will take him off the board before the 49ers are on the clock. He has the Steelers selecting him at No. 21 in his latest mock draft.

“He’s going to jump really well,” Jeremiah said. “He can win at the line of scrimmage against press (coverage). He’s a red-zone weapon — he can play above the rim. He can adjust in the middle of the field. He’s a point scorer. … He’d be a fun one to have — if he were to make it that far.”

Among the edge rushers, Young (6-5, 262) and Clemson’s T.J. Parker (6-3, 260) are logical targets if the 49ers use their first pick on a defensive lineman for the sixth time in their past 10 drafts. The 49ers want their defensive ends to be stout enough to serve as strong run defenders, with Nick Bosa (6-4, 266) possessing their preferred dimensions.”

3 Tight Ends the 49ers Might Sign in Free Agency
“Like I said in the beginning, the 49ers have been wanting that impactful tight end. And while [Isaiah] Likely would still be No. 2, he can be part of the answer the 49ers are looking for at wide receiver.

Free agency is ugly at wide receiver, so why not pivot to a tight end who can create more of a mismatch? It would change the dynamic of the 49ers’ offense, and probably one that they need.”

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...-australia-travel-miles-electrical-substation

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

49ers News: NFL Combine Week

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - FEBRUARY 27: General manager John Lynch of the San Francisco 49ers speaks to the media during the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center on February 27, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) | Getty Images

49ers free agency: Jauan Jennings’ projected market value
“According to Spotrac, Jennings’ projected market value sits at $22.6 million annually, which would rank 18th among NFL wide receivers. The salary cap tracking site estimates he could command a three-year, $67.8 million contract on the open market.”

The 49ers must race to find Christian McCaffrey help before it’s too late (paywall)
“The optimal path forward involves pairing McCaffrey with a bona fide receiving threat. Pittsburgh’s Kenneth Gainwell and the New York Jets’ Breece Hall, both of whom made the YPRR leaderboard above, are both scheduled to be free agents next month. Kenneth Walker III, who won Super Bowl MVP at Levi’s Stadium, might also become available because Seattle likely won’t slap the franchise tag on him.

Is it time for the 49ers to go all-in on offense, spending be damned? Fans might prefer that route to, say, drafting another running back in the third round. None of those experiments have worked and McCaffrey is still waiting for a credible counter-threat.

Isaac Guerendo, who’s endured some ball security issues, is still on the team. So is Jordan James, who enters his second season as a back with adaptable potential.

But unless the 49ers are sure one of those players can reliably move the needle in 2026, they can’t wait around forever. McCaffrey’s 30th birthday is a looming reminder of that. So is the fact that he’s only under contract with the team for two more seasons. That means 2026 almost certainly marks a defining inflection point.

History tells us that McCaffrey’s versatility can be the lynchpin that pushes a properly stocked offense over the top. His jaw-dropping volume of production in 2025 indicates that there’s still gas left in the tank.”

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...dy-kyle-shanahan-mac-jones-jauan-jenning-eddy

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

5 receivers who the 49ers could target in the 1st round

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 29: Makai Lemon #6 of the USC Trojans runs a route during the game against UCLA Bruins at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on November 29, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The 2026 NFL Combine is almost upon us, and the San Francisco 49ers will be highly invested as they look to bolster the roster for the upcoming season.

The 49ers had an impressive season this year and have a good opportunity to re-establish themselves as a contender with a strong draft and free agency this offseason. Among the highest priorities is at wide receiver, where the 49ers may need to replace two starters with Jauan Jennings hitting free agency.

Currently, the only projected starter on the team at wide receiver is Ricky Pearsall, who has dealt with his fair share of injury issues over the past two years. Now, wideout could be addressed in free agency, but it also may be smarter to target a younger, more cost-controlled option in the draft.

The 49ers are picking at No. 27, and there could very well be some wide receiver targets there. Let’s look at five receivers whom the team could target in the first round.

Denzel Boston

Boston is one of the more unique receivers projected near the first round, as he stands 6’4, 210 pounds, and has some strong production over the last two years. Boston caught 63 passes for 834 yards and nine touchdowns in 2024 before catching 62 passes for 881 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2025 for the Washington Huskies.

Here’s what NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein wrote about Boston:

“Two-year starter with elite ball skills that should supersede athletic/speed limitations. A Puka Nacua comparison might feel strong, but like Nacua, Boston enters the draft with speed/separation concerns and outstanding competitive toughness. Boston gets off the line with good burst and maintains his top speed throughout the route.

“He could have issues beating press, but releases can also be schemed. He’s very skilled when it comes to winning jump balls and contested throws. Boston also knows how to win in the red zone. Acclimating to NFL competition could take a year, but Boston has the makeup to become a productive possession target with above-average red-zone value.”

The 49ers will need a bigger-bodied receiver if Jennings leaves, and Boston could be a fit there at the end of the first round.

Makai Lemon

The 49ers would probably have to trade up to nab the USC star, but Lemon is the type of route runner that Kyle Shanahan covets in his offense. He could also be a replacement for Jauan Jennings, but doesn’t necessarily have to be a true slot receiver for San Francisco.

Here’s what Zierlein wrote about Lemon:

“High-skill, high-volume slot receiver with average size but extraordinary ball skills. Lemon has room for refinement, but not much. He’s intelligent, confident and polished with the ability to make plays on all three levels. Tempo-driven route-runner who misdirects man coverage and separates out of turns but is fairly average after the catch.”

“Quicker than fast, featuring early acceleration to open seam throws but flashes late burst when needed. More play strength is needed for NFL press and he needs to avoid rushing through multi-breaking routes. He’s an exceptional ball-tracker with excellent catch timing and few focus drops. He wins more combat catches than he loses. Lemon is a plug-and-play, quarterback-friendly talent with first-round value and Pro Bowl upside.”

The run-blocking effort adds value, too, and he could be that reliable third-down weapon for Purdy with a much higher upside.

Omar Cooper Jr.

A riser this year, Cooper’s got good size at 6’0, 205 pounds, and he could be a candidate to sneak into the back end of the first round. He’s great at the catch point, having 13 touchdowns this year for the Indiana Hoosiers, and has good acceleration that could match well for yards after the catch.

Here’s what Zierlein wrote about him:

“Big, strong target whose two-year rise is bolstered by translatable tape. While he was a full-time slot receiver in 2025, Cooper has played outside, as well. He can stem and drive past press with his strength. He has potent early acceleration to climb past nickelbacks into top position to challenge deep. His routes lack polish and he has average in-and-out quickness at break-points, but he’s rugged once the ball is in his hands.

“His ability to add yards after contact could earn Cooper more carries than we saw from him at Indiana. Fighting for catch space and blocking for the running game are areas where he needs improvement. Cooper is an ascending slot bully with Day 2 value.”

The 49ers have a quality route-runner with Pearsall. Adding a bigger-bodied receiver who plays with strength and is good at the catch point could be a good fit.

KC Concepcion

Concepcion is a lot different than most receivers on the list, and perhaps is the best fit for the 49ers. He’s got great acceleration, separates well, and can work well after the catch at 5’11, 190 pounds. He’s projected around the back end of the first round and could be an ideal target if available at No. 27.

Here’s what Zierlein wrote about him:

“Concepcion offers immediate burst and separation into space. He’s elusive in beating press and getting into breaks with minimum damage from handsy coverage. While he has a one-speed approach, he can snap off routes with alarming suddenness, making him extremely difficult to match at leveraged break points.

“He’s instinctive against zone. He’s also a nightmare for man coverage on choice routes and near the goal line. He’s quicker than fast, with more value on utility throws utilizing run after catch. Concepcion’s ability to quickly uncover should be very appealing to teams with spotty protection and a young quarterback.”

The size for run blocking may be an issue, but his separation skills stand out.

Chris Brazzell Jr.

The 49ers need speed and a vertical threat. Chris Brazzell Jr. provides that at 6’5, 200 pounds. He also works well over the middle of the field and has the production against top defenses.

Here’s what Zierlein wrote about him:

“Long-limbed “Z” receiver with the ability to create downfield for an offense thirsty to make more explosive plays outside. Brazzell’s 2025 tape shows the game slowing down for him, allowing the production to catch up with the traits. He builds to speed with long strides and dominates above the rim. He’s adept at using length and body control to capture air space against cornerbacks.

“He’s a more competent route runner than most field-stretcher types, but he needs to become more physical on contested targets underneath. Brazzell didn’t see many in-your-face press challenges this past season, but he’s likely to get an early taste of it as a pro. Two-high shells and zone-heavy looks can shrink his snap-to-snap impact, but the quick-strike potential is real.”

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...-targets-2026-nfl-draft-1st-round-nfl-combine

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

Golden Nuggets: Does Mike Evans have something left to give the 49ers?

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 19: Ji'Ayir Brown #27 of the San Francisco 49ers breaks up the pass to Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at Levi's Stadium on November 19, 2023 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) | Getty Images

NFL insider: 49ers expected to have interest in Mike Evans
“According to NFL insider Jason La Canfora, the 49ers are viewed as a logical suitor—and the interest could be mutual. Evans is reportedly taking a selective approach to his next destination, evaluating quarterback play, offensive scheme, system fit, and Super Bowl contention.”

49ers combine priorities: Trade talks, free-agent targets and draft prospects to watch (paywall)
“There are less intriguing options than Crosby on the free-agent market but ones whom the 49ers must also explore. Perhaps Trey Hendrickson, Khalil Mack or Joey Bosa on a one-year deal, or maybe former Niner Arden Key on a much cheaper, multiyear contract. Bosa, who will be 31 when the season starts, would cost less than Mack and would like the chance to play with his brother. There has been some slippage, but Bosa produced his best pressure rate last season since 2022.”

Kawakami: 49ers offseason predictions — Maxx Crosby, Eddy Piñeiro, Isaiah Likely, and more
“I think they’re set up for at least one big move. I’ve written that the ideal option would be to acquire Justin Jefferson in a mega trade from Minnesota; but even while proposing it more than a month ago I acknowledged it might be very tough to pull off this cycle.

Crosby is a much more realistic option — and still a pretty dynamic guy to imagine lining up opposite of Bosa and turning one of the worst pass rushes in the league last year into one of the best in 2026.

The Raiders want a ton for him, but I don’t think this is going to be a wild-hot auction for a 28-year-old coming off an injury. And I think the 49ers will be high in the running if they offer their first-round pick (No. 27) plus a few other picks down the road. I don’t think the 49ers would want to empty this year’s stash by giving up their second- or third-round picks. But if they can offer their No. 2 in 2027 or something similar, there might be some common ground here…..

….Shanahan and Lynch don’t invest much in guards or at right tackle, but they will spend for left tackle (especially if it’s Trent Williams) and center, if the right center is sitting there.

If there isn’t a top-line receiver available at the right price — and unless Shanahan and Lynch want to go all-in on Alec Pierce, it’s looking there might not be — maybe the 49ers will splurge again at center. Then they can either move Brendel to left guard or have him as a super backup all along the interior line.

I’m not saying that the 49ers for sure will land Linderbaum. I’m saying if they’ve got some extra cash lying around, they might be tempted to see if they can get him. Again, they won’t go nuts. Just will check.”

Should 49ers and Deebo Samuel run it back? Analyzing potential reunion with the ‘wide back’ (paywall)
“But that was then. Now? Samuel, who has never been known for his route-running ability, lacks the qualities that set him apart. In 2025, he had career lows in yards per catch (10.1) and yards after catch per reception (6.5). Most telling: He had six broken tackles on his 72 catches, averaging one broken tackle per 12 receptions, after averaging a broken tackle every 5.7 catches in his first six seasons.

It’s part of a steep decline that began in his last season with the 49ers. Samuel led NFL receivers with 38 broken tackles after catches from 2021 through 2023, and his yards per rushing attempt (6.3) in his first five seasons (2019-23) was the highest among players with 150-plus rushes over that span.

In the past two seasons, he’s had 17 broken tackles on his 182 touches, five fewer than he had on his 136 touches in 2021, and he’s averaged 3.6 yards on his 59 carries.”

Maiocco’s NFL mock draft 1.0: 49ers select Missouri defensive end Zion Young
“The 49ers had the worst pass rush in the NFL last season, and it must be a priority to get Young(er).”

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...y-mike-evans-rumors-kyle-shanahan-brock-purdy

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

49ers GM John Lynch on Trent Williams: ‘I think we’re all on the same page’

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JANUARY 11: General manager John Lynch of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after his team's 23-19 win against the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Wild Card Playoff game at Lincoln Financial Field on January 11, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) | Getty Images

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on Tuesday afternoon that the San Francisco 49ers and left tackle Trent Williams are struggling to find a contract solution that could potentially lead to Williams’ release this offseason.

The timing comes as the NFL Combine is underway, and that’s generally when we hear about free agency rumors like this one. However, Schefter has a reputation for blindly copying and pasting whatever an agent tells him.

The good news is 49ers general manager John Lynch spoke at the Combine Tuesday afternoon, suggesting the two sides are in communication:

In recent weeks, I’ve met with both Trent and his agent, Vincent Taylor, and have had really good, productive, and substantive meetings. So, here’s what I know. Trent loves being a Niner. We love having Trent as a Niner. And it’s up to us how to figure that out, to thread that needle. There’s some unique circumstances. We all know how Trent is as a player, and how great of a player he’s been. He’s going to be 38-years-old. And there’s some things that go into that. But I think we’re all on the same page, and feel very positive about where that’s going.

Williams’ contract is tricky because it has void years. His 2026 cap number is close to $39 million, with a base salary of $22.21 million. We’re hearing about Williams’ contract because he’s due an option bonus of $10 million on March 11, the first day of the new league year. If nothing is done, Williams will see his contract void on the fifth day of the waiver period in the 2027 league year.

The void years on Williams’ contract run through 2029, with option bonuses in each year of $2.5 million. So, if the 49ers were to release Williams, those option bonuses plus a signing bonus that surpasses $20 million are how you get a $34.1 million dead money hit in 2026.

Williams is on record saying that he wants to play until he’s 40. Reworking his deal in the way the team has is essentially “kicking the can down the road,” which is probably not something Williams wants to do, which is why we haven’t heard of a new deal yet.

An easy way around this is to give Trent a good portion of his guarantees in the next year or two of the new deal, while adding void/ghost years that will allow the team to stretch his signing/option bonuses out over a few years, which is the way his current deal is constructed.

The 49ers are in a position to draft Williams’ replacement, but since they don’t have an option on the roster currently, it’s hard to imagine the team has any leverage in this situation.

Lynch finished by saying he has “a great deal of confidence” that the deal with Williams gets done, per the reporters on hand.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...nt-williams-i-think-were-all-on-the-same-page

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

Golden Nuggets: Would it be a 49ers offseason without a gnarly contract dispute?

49ers, Trent Williams locked in contract dispute that reportedly could end in his release (paywall)
“The 49ers have little financial incentive to part with Williams. The 49ers would earn $4.69 million in salary cap space by releasing Williams, but such a move would trigger a $34.15 million dead-money charge.

In addition, the 49ers don’t have a replacement on the roster after not drafting an offensive tackle since 2021. Their top option is Austen Pleasants, 28, who has been waived eight times since he went undrafted in 2020.

It’s possible the 49ers haven’t made heir-apparent plans because they have confidence that Williams can reach his oft-stated longevity goal. Williams wants to join a select group of by playing in 2028 when he’s 40. Only six offensive linemen have played into their 40s since 1925: Andrew Whitworth, Jason Peters, Jackie Slater, Bruce Matthews, Jeff Van Note and Ray Brown.”

Five offensive linemen 49ers could target at pick No. 27 in 2026 NFL Draft
“Iheanachor got a late start in football because he focused on basketball earlier in his early high school days. Those movement skills are necessary for success in the 49ers’ blocking scheme.

Again, Iheanachor does not check all the boxes because he played right tackle in college. The 49ers need someone to protect Brock Purdy’s blindside.

He improved his stock with a strong showing at the Senior Bowl against top competition, an indication his game is on the rise.”

Five top edge rusher prospects 49ers could target at No. 27 in 2026 NFL Draft
“Assuming they hold onto the 27th pick in the draft, the 49ers likely will not have the opportunity to draft such players as Arvell Reese (Ohio State), David Bailey (Texas Tech), Rueben Bain (Miami) and Keldric Faulk (Auburn).”

49ers GM John Lynch speaks at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine
“San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch spoke to reporters at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis on Tuesday. Here’s everything he had to say.”

49ers select ‘most natural left tackle prospect’ in Bucky Brooks’ latest mock draft
“The most natural left tackle prospect in the draft could give the 49ers an enviable long-term plan at the crucial position,” Brooks wrote. “Lomu’s nimble feet and quick hands would make him the perfect eventual replacement for Trent Williams on the blind side.”

The War Room: It’s Combine Week (paywall)
“Kaytron Allen, RB, Penn State: This is one of the sharpest running backs I’ve watched. He has an elite tempo to his runs. He handles small spaces in flow, and follows his blockers with outrageous patience and intelligence. He might not have the top-tier measurables, but I think he’s quick enough. On early watch, this is a guy who can start Day 1.

Chris Brazzell III, WR, Tennessee: He’s WR2 for me right now, and that’s from someone who is typically lower on big receivers. He has no business moving the way he does at 6’5” and while he’s not a wide-framed player, he blocks his tail off. His deceleration is astonishing. His route distribution at Tennessee didn’t allow him to show off his full tree, but I see the route craft and movement skills. He also Mosses people. The only thing I really dislike is his inability to toe tap. He’s lazy/inconsistent dragging his feet along the sidelines a la Brian Thomas Jr. last year.”

49ers add developmental prospect in Mel Kiper’s latest 2026 mock draft
“From an analytics standpoint, Proctor closed his collegiate career on a strong note. According to Pro Football Focus, he posted career-best marks in 2025 with an 86.1 overall offensive grade, an 81.1 run-blocking grade, and an 84.2 pass-blocking grade. He surrendered 21 pressures and two sacks across 611 pass-blocking snaps.

At 6-foot-7 and 366 pounds, Proctor possesses rare size, so the upside is apparent.

“So, Proctor could develop in Year 1 while kicking inside to guard and/or playing a swing tackle role before perhaps taking over for Williams in 2027,” Kiper added. “He has 40 career starts — all at left tackle — and is reliable in pass protection. This would be an upside pick for GM John Lynch.”

Will QB Mac Jones be on the 49ers’ roster next season?
“Among those who could be in need of a quarterback, Jones would make the most sense in Minnesota, Miami and Arizona, all of whom employ head coaches or offensive coordinators with a background running at least a version of Shanahan’s offensive scheme.

While Jones won’t have full say in a potential trade, his relationship with the Niners is strong enough that if multiple offers were on the table, he’d get some say in where he lands. And it’s a safe bet that his preference would be to land in a place that most closely resembles what he’s had in San Francisco both culturally and in terms of offensive system.”

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...s-offseason-without-a-gnarly-contract-dispute

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

Lynch on WR need: ‘We’ve got some young players that we really need to come to the forefront’

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JANUARY 17: Ricky Pearsall #1 of the San Francisco 49ers stands on the sidelines during the national anthem prior to an NFL divisional playoff football game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on January 17, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images) | Getty Images

When it comes to offseason needs for the San Francisco 49ers, wide receiver is near or atop that list, with the team potentially needing to replace two starters this offseason.

Jauan Jennings, a seventh-round pick back in 2020, is a free agent and could command a hefty salary on the open market after recording over 1,600 yards and 15 touchdowns over the last two years. San Francisco didn’t have the most stable group this year without Brandon Aiyuk, who missed the entire year and isn’t expected back with the team. And Ricky Pearsall has been hampered with injuries, limiting him to just 20 games over the past two years.

The team has drafted a couple of players at the position in recent years. They took Pearsall and Jacob Cowing in the first and fourth rounds of the 2024 NFL Draft, respectively. Then, they drafted Jordan Watkins in the fifth round last year. The trio has played in just 39 of a possible 85 games.

So it wasn’t a surprise that John Lynch was asked about his assessment of the receiver room at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine this week. Speaking to reporters, the general manager pointed to those younger pieces as the players who need to step up in 2026.

“Yeah, obviously, Jauan’s a free agent, and we’ve been in good contact with Jauan,” Lynch said when asked about the receivers. “We’ll see where that goes. We’ve got some young players that we really need to come to the forefront. Jacob Cowing’s a guy that we’ve had, and we’ve like for a couple years, he hasn’t been on to be able to be on the field much because of his hamstring ailments.

“Ricky’s a fantastic player. We’ve got to find a way to keep him healthy. He had a tough injury early, and he kept dinging the same thing over and over and over, and it was a tough year for him. Ricky’s going to be a fine player. Jordan Watkins has to take big steps, and then we’ve got opportunities to improve ourselves by either bringing back some of the players who have been with us or go finding new guys that fit who we want to be and what we want to be both in free agency and in the draft.”

It seems like the 49ers will add at least one impact piece this offseason, though there’s probably a need for multiple if Jennings departs. The draft has been an avenue for cost-controlled talent in recent years, but the 49ers will need to hit there after seeing their recent draftees struggle to get on the field. As for free agency, there are intriguing options, but it will depend on how much the team is willing to spend.

Speed is something this group lacked in 2025. That could be an area to target in free agency, with Indianapolis’s Alec Pierce and Seattle’s Rashid Shaheed among the top options, assuming they don’t return to their existing teams.

But the 49ers need more production from a wideout group that didn’t have a single player eclipse 700 yards in 2025.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...ers-jauan-jennings-free-agency-ricky-pearsall

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

49ers News: The NFL Combine officially kicks off today

What we learned from John Lynch at NFL combine: Brandon Aiyuk’s status, Mac Jones’ future (paywall)
“So far, there’s been no discussion, though Lynch noted he’s been swamped with competition committee meetings during the day and prospect interviews in the evening. (Lynch was the last official from any team to take the podium Tuesday.)

“Really, where (trade discussions) happen typically is once the workouts start,” he said. “Everybody’s sitting in their suites, GMs kind of walk suite to suite. So I’m sure there will be interest. He’s a really good player.”

Five defensive tackles 49ers could target at pick No. 27 in 2026 NFL Draft
“[Texas Tech DT Lee Hunter] is a very strong run defender. The 49ers gave up 4.3 yards per carry on the ground last season. That’s not bad, but there is room for improvement to force more third-and-long situations.

Hunter would step in as an immediate contributor on first and second downs. He has the tools to improve as a pass-rusher and ultimately become a three-down player on the defensive line.

Hunter showed his immense talent during the week of practices at the Senior Bowl, where he established himself as one of the standout players.

49ers insider addresses Trent Williams release vs. trade debate
“I would think that, for teams out there interested in him, they would realize that they would have to also — if they give the 49ers, say, a first-round draft pick for Trent Williams, or a second and a third, or whatever the case may be — they also have to meet his contract demands,” Maiocco explained. “And so, there might be a little bit of reluctance for teams like that….so, yeah, there would be plenty of teams, I would think, that could feel like they could use Trent Williams in their starting lineup,” Maiocco added.”

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...-deebo-samuel-jauan-jennings-nick-bosa-raheem

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

It’s time to talk trades for the 49ers

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - FEBRUARY 24: John Lynch of the San Francisco 49ers speaks to the media during the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 24, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Lauren Leigh Bacho/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine is upon us for the rest of the week, as the top draft prospects will test and interview for NFL teams in hopes of hearing their names called later this offseason.

But the combine isn’t only a time where teams meet with prospects. It’s also an opportunity for head coaches and executives of teams to talk with one another ahead of the new league year, where trade talk and other business can begin to happen.

Just last year, the 49ers agreed to trade wide receiver Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders for a fifth-round pick during the week of the Combine. Now, with San Francisco looking to bolster its roster this offseason, could they look to make another trade or two?

If so, those conversations could start up this week, as general manager John Lynch noted that there are only a few times when most general managers are around each other to strike up those conversations.

“Oh, I think that’s accurate for sure,” Lynch said this week in regards to whether a lot of trade talks start at the Combine. “I thought you were talking like evaluations of players long before, and that sometimes is the case too. But, absolutely.

“There’s a couple, three probably, inflection points. Usually down at Mobile (at the Senior Bowl), you get most GMs are down there, then at the Combine, and then at league meetings. So, usually at one of those places, a lot of those conversations. And this week it’s kind of, everybody’s in that mindset coming off the season, now you’re really looking forward. And yes, a lot of those conversations have commenced, and the inception of them was here, and some finish here.”

The 49ers could be players in free agency this offseason with some extra money to spend, but they may also look to the trade market to fill some of their needs. One of those may be at defensive line, where San Francisco could use additional help both on the edge and in the middle. While there are some edge candidates in free agency, such as Jaelen Phillips, Trey Hendrickson, Odafe Oweh, and Khalil Mack, the 49ers could opt for a player with a better contract and send out draft capital in return.

Similarly, without much of a defensive tackle class in free agency, San Francisco could target an upgrade there via trade, as they did with Maliek Collins two years ago.

There is also the possibility of sending a player out, with Renardo Green being a rumored option for trade recently. ESPN’s Dan Graziano and Ben Solak gave an 80 percent chance that Green would be traded this offseason, noting the fit and the inconsistencies over his first two years. So perhaps those conversations could also begin to take place this week.

We’ll see what the 49ers elect to do in the coming weeks. But the trade market could be their way to upgrading and offloading their roster this offseason.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...arket-nfl-combine-renardo-green-kyle-shanahan

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

Golden Nuggets: News of 49ers meeting draft prospects are starting to roll in

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 25: General managers John Lynch of the San Francisco 49ers speaks to the media at the Indiana Convention Center on February 25, 2020 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) *** Local Capture *** John Lynch | Getty Images

New Trent Williams standoff, same story: He owns all the leverage (paywall)
“For starters, the 49ers aren’t well-positioned to play take-it-or-leave-it hardball because they’ve neglected a succession plan as Williams has aged. The 49ers haven’t drafted an offensive tackle since they selected since-departed Jaylon Moore in the fifth round in 2021, meaning journeyman Austen Pleasants, 28, is the next man up on their current roster.

The 49ers also lack leverage because, if Williams is slipping, it’s not to the point that he can’t reasonably demand to be paid at or near the top of the market. He can stand his ground after he was a first-team All-Pro last season who played in 18 of 19 games and ranked third among offensive tackles, according to Pro Football Focus’ grading system.

The 49ers could release Williams. But doing so would trigger a $34.15 million dead-money charge, less than $5 million than the $38.8 million cap charge Williams currently carries that the 49ers want to decrease. And if they part with Williams? They’ll have to spend significant resources in free agency or the draft to find his replacement during an offseason in which wide receiver and edge rusher are screaming roster needs.

The 49ers don’t appear to be in a good place to negotiate with their blindside protector. And that should feel familiar.

In March 2021, after Williams’ first season with the 49ers following his trade from the Commanders, he was poised to accept a free-agent contract from the Chiefs. Before doing so, however, he made good on his pledge to call head coach Kyle Shanahan to give the 49ers a chance to counter any offer.

The gist of Williams’ no-nonsense message to Shanahan as he stood outside a Houston restaurant: Tell chief contract negotiator Paraag Marathe to give me more money — and make it snappy.”

“I heard the same thing from NFL sources this week that I heard in the weeks and months before ESPN reported that Williams and the 49ers were struggling to come to an agreement, which the report heavily implied could lead to the 49ers releasing Williams before they’d have to make a $10 million up-front payment.

Kawakami: Trent Williams’ inevitable 49ers money, why negotiations get weird, and more (paywall)
“Umm, no, my NFL sources said. Unless something crazy happens, the 49ers intend to add more guaranteed money to Williams’ deal and Williams, who turns 38 in July, intends to be with the 49ers through the rest of his career.

Certainly, the financial terms have to be figured out. Definitely, there could be, as there almost always is with the 49ers and high-profile players, some tension during the back and forth. The player wants more. The team wants to pay less. And guaranteeing future money gets riskier as players age. ….For this negotiation, maybe the 49ers’ negotiators tossed out a big-bluff, “hey, we don’t have to pay you anything, starting with that $10 million.” And the ESPN report easily could’ve been the Williams camp’s loud retort — yeah, go ahead. Because they’d know the 49ers were just bluffing. It’s part of the process, I guess.“

Ten prospects for the 49ers to watch this week, including Omar Cooper and Kenyon Sadiq (paywall)
“Raheem Morris’ arrival as defensive coordinator means the 49ers will likely consider more small, speedy edge rushers than they’ve scouted in the past. There are a lot of those in this year’s draft, including Oklahoma’s R Mason Thomas and Texas Tech’s Romello Height.

[Texas AM DE Cashius] Howell might be the best of the sub-250-pounders, finishing with 11.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss last season. Howell’s GTFO time — a 49ers calculus that determines a lineman’s explosion — ought to catch defensive line coach Kris Kocurek’s eye in the run-up to the draft.

49ers meet with safety, defensive tackle, linebacker at NFL Combine
“According to Chase Senior of Chat Sports, the 49ers conducted a formal interview with former Ole Miss defensive tackle Zxavian Harris…”He is 6’7”, 320 lbs. Had three sacks and three passes defended in 2025,” Senior wrote….He delivered his most productive season in 2025, recording 58 tackles and three sacks while anchoring the Rebels’ defensive front.

Senior also reported that San Francisco held an informal meeting with former Oregon linebacker Bryce Boettcher. The 49ers previously connected with Boettcher during Senior Bowl week.

“Oregon LB, Bryce Boettcher, who was drafted in the 13th round of the 2024 MLB Draft as a center fielder, has met informally with the San Francisco 49ers and Philadelphia Eagles,” Senior wrote.

Additionally, Senior noted that the 49ers met with former Texas safety Michael Taaffe at the Combine.

“He went from walk-on to becoming a star player, All-American, and key leader for Texas,” Senior wrote.”

49ers meet with Georgia CB Daylen Everette at NFL Scouting Combine
Everette (6-0, 193) spent four seasons at Georgia, developing into one of the SEC’s top defensive backs. Over his collegiate career, he recorded 150 total tackles, five tackles for loss, one sack, five interceptions, and 19 passes defensed, along with two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries, according to Sports Reference.

In 2025, Everette finished with 50 tackles, one interception, and a career-high 10 passes defensed. He also returned a fumble for a touchdown and earned first-team All-SEC honors.”

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...s-rumors-espn-agent-free-agency-mock-jennings

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

The salary cap has been set for 2026

SEATTLE, WA - JANUARY 17: Head Coach Kyle Shanahan of the San Francisco 49ers on the field before the NFC Divisional Playoff game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on January 17, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. The Seahawks defeated the 49ers 41-6. (Photo by Michael Zagaris/San Francisco 49ers/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The NFL announced on Friday that this season’s salary cap will be $301.2 million per team this year, up from $279.2 million in 2025, as the league’s cap continues to grow at a high rate.

As a result, the San Francisco 49ers are projected to have approximately $38.9 million in cap space this offseason, according to OverTheCap, with room to grow depending on several roster moves.

Earlier this offseason, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported that the NFL informed teams it was projected the 2026 salary cap would be in the range of $301.2 million to $305.7 million per team this season. It ultimately fell on the shorter side at $301.2 million, representing a 7.9 percent increase year-by-year.

In 2025, the salary cap ended up being higher than expected, with teams expecting the cap to be in the range of $265 million to $275 million before the number ended up at $279.2 million, representing a 9.3 percent increase year-by-year.

When looking at the 49ers, there are a couple of ways to increase their cap space, with a Trent Williams extension/restructure being the easiest way to do so. Currently, the star left tackle holds a cap hit of $38.8 million for the 2026 season and is on the final year of his deal.

Earlier this week, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the 49ers and Williams were struggling to find a contractual solution ahead of the new league year, which could result in him potentially hitting free agency.

But general manager John Lynch didn’t seem worried, sharing at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine that he and Williams’s agent have had ‘really good’ meetings over the past few weeks and believed the two sides were on the same page.

So it seems like a solution will be coming there at some point, which should lower Williams’s cap hit for the 2026 season and increase the cap room for the 49ers.

The 49ers could also look to restructure Nick Bosa’s contract for the first time since handing him a five-year, $170 million extension in 2023. He is currently slated to hold a $41.6 million cap hit in 2026, but that increases to $52.03 million in 2027.

The other big expected move is the handling of Brandon Aiyuk’s contract, as the 49ers voided the guarantees in the wideout’s contract last offseason and are expected to move off him this offseason. That should free up some cap space for the team, although it’s not known exactly how much that would be. Prior to the voided guarantees, Aiyuk was scheduled to hold a $14.6 million cap hit in 2026.

The good news is that there aren’t any other major extensions needed for the 49ers apart from Williams. San Francisco has Bosa, Brock Purdy, Fred Warner, George Kittle, Christian McCaffrey, Deommodore Lenoir, and Colton McKivitz locked up for at least the next two seasons, with a majority extended beyond that as well.

So we’ll see how aggressive the 49ers are with their newfound cap space after spending most of their money last offseason extending their core players.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...26-trent-williams-brandon-aiyuk-kyle-shanahan

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

Golden Nuggets: What a beautiful weekend to furiously refresh the 49ers’ NFL combine meetings

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JANUARY 17: San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch interacts with Ricky Pearsall #1 prior to an NFL divisional playoff football game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on January 17, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images) | Getty Images

49ers reportedly targeting Louisville receiver amid NFL Combine buzz
“The recent word here at the combine is that Bell is back in the conversation as a potential late first-round pick,” Pauline wrote. “The teams that I’m told are targeting Bell in this area are the Denver Broncos and San Francisco 49ers. Both teams make sense, as the Broncos and Niners need receivers, and both have a history of selecting players early in the draft that fit their needs rather than going the route of conventional wisdom.”

Bell carries some risk, as he is recovering from an ACL injury that required surgery, sidelining him during pre-draft workouts.

“At the Senior Bowl, I was told Bell should be able to take part in on-field/non-contact work this June and would be 100 percent soon after that,” Pauline reported, adding that Bell is ahead of schedule and expected to be fully ready for training camp.

Pauline also noted, “I also viewed videos of his recent workouts, which showed no ill effects from the knee injury.”

Five wide receivers 49ers could target with first-round pick in 2026 NFL Draft
“The body control he has is crazy,” Mendoza said Friday at the NFL Scouting Combine. “And I know people compare him to Deebo Samuel, and I believe Omar is a receiver by far more than a running back. That’s what I see, a prime Deebo Samuel.”

Cooper had 69 receptions for 937 yards and 13 touchdowns for the undefeated national champs. He is tough, a willing blocker and a guy who can be deployed in a number of different ways.”

Five defensive backs 49ers could target with first-round pick in 2026 NFL Draft
“The 49ers demand that their cornerbacks get aggressive in the run game, and that will not be an issue with [CB Colton Hood]. At 6-foot, 193 pounds, Hood played stronger than he looks.

His press coverage skills would fit well with some of the new looks that defensive coordinator Raheem Morris is expected to bring to the 49ers.”

John Lynch likes the 49ers’ current offensive line, but says ‘we’ll add to it’
“Burford is hitting free agency, and Brendel thinks he will be a popular target for teams — just like guard Aaron Banks was last year.

Lynch knows he might need to add a left guard.

“That’s probably one that we need to figure out,” Lynch said. “Burford is a free agent, and Bartch did have some foot surgery. He’s struggled to stay healthy. … He’s been pretty good when he’s played, and so we’ll see where that goes.”

And don’t count out Colby, a 2025 seventh-round pick out of Iowa with a first-round mullet.

“We were intrigued and excited at times with Connor Colby and the way he stepped in and played through some injuries,” Lynch said. “And I thought we responded really well. Far from perfect, but he showed he could play in our league.”

Behind the Curtain: Oklahoma DT Gracen Halton (Paywall)
“But there are some physical limitations that worry me specifically with his rush style. I think he’s a guy that needs to have a pretty clear-cut role as a rookie, and I think his career success will largely be determined by how he’s utilized and who he’s coached by.

I looked at his tape against Michigan and Tennessee, and frankly, there’s not a ton to parse from the Michigan stuff because of how much quick game they used.”

49ers meet with dynamic receiver at NFL Combine
“According to Chase Senior of Chat Sports, the San Francisco 49ers met with former Clemson wide receiver Antonio Williams at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis.

“Really dynamic with the ball in his hands after the catch,” Senior wrote. “He said his biggest strength is separation. The 49ers WR room really struggled with that in 2025.”

NFL announces 2026 salary cap set at $301.2 million
“Based on the new cap and data from OverTheCap.com, the San Francisco 49ers currently have an estimated $38.9 million in available cap space. That total could still change as teams finalize adjustments, restructures, and carryover from the 2025 season.”

Report: 49ers special teams contributor expected to draw interest from others “Robert Saleh was complimentary of Lucas last season — calling him ‘invaluable’ at one point — so the Titans would likely be interested,” Garafolo noted.”

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...ffensive-line-brock-purdy-contract-salary-cap

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

49ers free agency profile: Is Dre’Mont Jones a good veteran fit?

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - NOVEMBER 23: Dre'Mont Jones #41 of the Baltimore Ravens takes the field prior to an NFL football game against the New York Jets at M&T Bank Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The San Francisco 49ers have an obvious need at pass rush, finishing with a league-low 20 sacks in 2025, showing no ability to get after the quarterback after Nick Bosa suffered his season-ending knee injury in Week 3.

There won’t be a shortage of pass rushers on the market, with high-priced, big-ticket players like Maxx Crosby and Trey Hendrickson that could be had if the price is right. But let’s take a look at a player who not only will be a lower-priced option, but one the 49ers have been rumored to be interested in as recently as this past trade deadline: Dre’Mont Jones, who Spotrac has valued at an annual average value of $10.3 million.

After four seasons in Denver and two in Seattle, Jones found himself in Tennessee to start what proved to be the best season of his career. While only playing nine games with the Titans, Jones finished third on the team with 4.5 sacks and was second only behind All-Pro Jeffrey Simmons at the time of his trade.

The trade moved Jones from a bottom-of-the-barrel team to one in the thick of a playoff chase with Baltimore. Jones finished the rare 18-game season by playing nine more with the Ravens. And while his sack numbers didn’t match what they were with Tennessee – just 2.5 in Baltimore – his pressure numbers improved, finishing with 32 in the back half of the season, compared to 19 with the Titans.

The seven sacks and 51 pressures set a new career-high for the 29-year-old. Let’s say San Francisco goes on to sign Jones; that seven-sack number is important. Since the 49ers drafted Nick Bosa back in 2019, only five pass rushers not named Bosa have finished with more than seven sacks in a season:

• 2019 Arik Armstead: 10.0 sacks
• 2024 Leonard Floyd: 8.5
• 2020 Kerry Hyder: 8.5
• 2019 DeForest Buckner: 7.5
• 2023 Javon Hargrave: 7.0

If there is a concern with Jones, it would be his fit with the 49ers. San Francisco has run a 4-3 defense under Kyle Shanahan, regardless of who the defensive coordinator has been. That likely won’t change with Raheem Morris at the helm. Jones has played almost exclusively in a 3-4 defense throughout his career. In 2025, Jones played 658 snaps standing up as an outside linebacker and just 123 snaps with his hand on the ground at the defensive end.

Now, with Morris, the 49ers defense could get a little more creative. Morris has traditionally run a 3-4 defense, but San Francisco will stick to their traditional 4-3. John Lynch has alluded to the possibility of playing around with more five-person fronts, leaving room for different looks. Jones’ versatility to play both standing at the line and his hand in the dirt could intrigue the 49ers to rekindle their interest in the eighth-year pass rusher.

Jones is an average run defender and a plus pass rusher. There might be better options out there, but the 49ers are more than one pass rusher away from being set at the position. Unless the solution is Maxx Crosby, San Francisco could consider multiple lower-priced options to fill the position group. If they go that route, Jones could be an interesting option.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...y-profile-is-dremont-jones-a-good-veteran-fit

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

Golden Nuggets: The 49ers march toward a new season

CLEVELAND, OHIO - NOVEMBER 30: Brock Purdy #13 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates with Christian McCaffrey #23 after scoring a rushing touchdown against the Cleveland Browns during the third quarter at Huntington Bank Field on November 30, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Would WR Mike Evans be a ‘perfect’ free-agent signing for 49ers?
“Evans made $20.5 million per year during his most recent contract with the Buccaneers, and it’s unclear if he’d want a similar deal. He’ll be 33 in August and is coming off a season in which he missed half the games due to various injuries. Evans had tallied at least 1,000 receiving yards in 11 consecutive seasons before 2025. For what it’s worth, Spotrac projects Evans’ contract to be for about two years and $26.6 million, which is certainly within the 49ers’ range.”

49ers NFL Combine Watch: Defensive Backs and Tight Ends Risers and Fallers
“Kenyon Sadiq delivered one of the most eye-catching performances of the day, reportedly running a 4.39-second 40-yard dash — elite speed for the position. His athletic profile creates mismatch potential at the receiving tight end position.”

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...st-40-interviews-meetings-prospects-offseason

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

49ers a ‘sneaky contender’ for top FAs at two positions

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JANUARY 11: General manger John Lynch of the San Francisco 49ers looks on prior to in the NFC Wild Card Playoff game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on January 11, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The San Francisco 49ers are expected to be more of a player in free agency this offseason in comparison to last, where they prioritized spending cash on extending their core, while letting most of their key free agents walk.

The team does have a few needs, namely at wide receiver and defensive line, but also has seven draft picks in the 2026 NFL Draft to help bolster the roster. Last year, San Francisco made an effort to get younger as a team after being one of the older rosters in the NFL, and that philosophy could continue this offseason again.

But ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler wrote that the 49ers are a sneaky contender for some of the top free agents at defensive line and wide receiver in his post-Combine notebook on Sunday.

“The 49ers are a sneaky contender for some of the good free agents along the defensive line and at wide receiver. They want a disruptive interior rusher to pair with Nick Bosa, for example,” Fowler wrote. “John Franklin-Myers is the top option there. At wideout, Green Bay’s Romeo Doubs is considered a good fit for San Francisco’s offense and a potential option, along with Minnesota’s Jalen Nailor.”

San Francisco could use an interior defensive lineman to work alongside 2025 draftees Alfred Collins and C.J. West. While both players showed promise as rookies, adding some more pass-rushing juice there would go a long way to bolstering the No. 32-ranked pass rush in the NFL in 2025.

An edge rusher would also make sense to complement Bosa, Mykel Williams, and Bryce Huff, but the 49ers don’t need to spend significant money at the position with the depth they have coming back.

Wide receiver, though, would be a position that makes sense to add a free agent. The 49ers have Jauan Jennings hitting the open market, and he might price himself out of San Francisco’s range. While they do have Ricky Pearsall back as a projected starter, the 49ers will need to fill the other two starting spots if Jennings departs.

One of those could be filled in free agency by a Doubs or Nailor, while the 49ers could target the other in what is looking to be a speedy draft for receivers. Speed is the biggest need for San Francisco on the boundary after their veteran options struggled with separation last year.

The 49ers have over $35 million in cap space at the moment, and that should rise before the new league year with some potential releases and an extension for Trent Williams to lower his $38 million cap hit for 2026. So, they’ll have some money to spend in free agency, and could very well be a sneaky contender for a top free agent.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...nder-free-agency-wide-receiver-defensive-line

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

Should the 49ers look to a seven-time pro bowler at guard?

Jul 26, 2025; Berea, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns guard Joel Bitonio (75) during training camp at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images | Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

So, the San Francisco 49ers’ offensive line issues grew over the last week. First, it was just finding a left guard and a successor for Trent Williams. Now it could turn into finding his replacement.

Nevertheless, another guard would help, and ESPN’s Aaron Schatz has the 49ers taking the services of Joel Bitonio in his projected free agent signing for the team. At 34 years of age, Bitonio has spent his entire career with the Cleveland Browns. Sportrac has him valued at an annual average of $10.3 million.

Would the 49ers be willing to put 34-year-old Bitonio next to 37-year-old Trent Williams (assuming the Niners and Williams can work out his contract situation) on the left side of their offensive line? There is an opening here, and a chance for Bitonio to finally go after a Super Bowl ring with a real contender.

He ranked third among all guards with a 96.4% pass block win rate last season, and his run block win rate of 72.3% was above average. Alijah Vera-Tucker would also be an interesting signing for the 49ers if they wanted to go younger at left guard instead.

What gets me drooling is the win rates: 96.4% pass block, 72.3% run block. Originally, just having Christian McCaffrey run the direction of Trent Williams was a solid call. Now you have both Williams AND Bitonio? That could help the run game. Get a center, and we’ll have a lot of this run game thing figured out.

Oh, and get this: the last time Bitonio missed a game was 2023. And that was just two games the entire season. The last time he played fewer than 10 NFL games was in 2015. Of course, if that electrical substation theory has any traction, he may see something different in red and gold, but we won’t consider that scenario just yet.

Of course, that’s assuming the 49ers keep Williams. We don’t know what’s going on there, and with few options behind him, he’s a priority, as Nicholas was kind to point out the other day. This could have been a bit easier had they gotten a left tackle of the future at some point, but who plans for that?

Back to Bitonio, the age could be concerning, but Williams is 37 and has no sign of slowing down. What do you think of this fit for the 49ers? Is this a worthy free agent signing?

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...9ers-look-to-a-seven-time-pro-bowler-at-guard

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

The 49ers won’t place a tender on Kalia Davis, allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 09: Kalia Davis #93 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after a play against the Los Angeles Rams in the second quarter of a game at Levi's Stadium on November 09, 2025 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) | Getty Images

According to Jordan Schultz of Fox Sports, the San Francisco 49ers will not place a tender on Kalia Davis, allowing the would-be restricted free agent to become an unrestricted free agent.

From the personnel side of things, the 49ers should be thrilled they were able to get 17 starts this past season from the 42nd pick of the sixth round. Davis flashed early in the season and allowed the rookie defensive tackles to come along slowly.

By the end of the season, despite starting the games, second-round pick Alfred Collins and fourth-round pick CJ West ended up out-snapping Davis and veteran Jordan Elliott. That was likely the plan all along, while the rookies got used to playing in the NFL.

There are three restricted free agency tenders. The first-round tender in 2026 cost a little more than $8 million. The second-round tender is roughly $5.7 million. The Right of First Refusal tag is the cheapest this offseason, coming in at $3.52 million.

That’s the 49ers telling us they want to move on from Davis, as his skill set is redundant to that of Collins and West. Davis becomes the odd man out, being the lowest-draft pick of the run-stuffing interior defensive linemen on the roster.

Raheem Morris will likely want to complement Collins and West with more of a pass-rushing threat. Perhaps Morris wants to bring veteran defensive tackle David Onyemata with him from Atlanta. Onyemata started 17 games for the Falcons in 2025, but he recorded only 1 sack and will be 34 next year.

The 49ers have been linked to Broncos defensive tackle John Franklin-Myers, who has plenty of pass-rushing upside and would be the best interior rusher on the roster.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...wing-him-to-become-an-unrestricted-free-agent