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The 49ers have signed defensive lineman Cam Sample to a one-year contract in free agency

The San Francisco 49ers, like every other team in the NFL, are putting the finishing touches on their preparations for the upcoming draft. After making a run to the divisional round of the playoffs last year, the Niners will have a great opportunity to add some young talent on cheap contracts to their team.

Of course, free agency is also still underway, although many of the top names remaining are likely waiting until after the draft to find new homes. The Niners opted to get an important piece of business taken care of ahead of the draft, though, as they have reportedly signed veteran defensive lineman Cam Sample.

49ers Sign Cam Sample to 1-Year Contract

Former Bengals DE Cam Sample agreed to a one-year deal with the 49ers, per source. pic.twitter.com/f3nwZ8oq1H

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) April 9, 2026

Sample was selected in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals, which is where he’s spent the first five years of his career. While Sample has flashed his potential frequently early on during his time in the pros, he was unable to earn a consistent role on the Bengals’ defense, which is why the team let him walk in free agency.

A rotational defensive lineman who specializes in rushing the passer, Sample seemed set for a big year in 2024 after he racked up 29 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and a pass breakup in 17 games of action the season before. However, he suffered a torn Achilles tendon before the start of the year, forcing him to miss the Bengals’ entire campaign.

In 2025, Sample returned to action and picked up 17 tackles, two sacks, and one forced fumble in 14 games. Even with Trey Hendrickson departing in free agency, Cincy decided to move on from Sample, opting to let him sign with another team. That has now seen him land with the 49ers, as he will be tasked with providing depth along the defensive line for his new squad.

“Former Bengals DE Cam Sample agreed to a one-year deal with the 49ers, per source,” Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reported in a post on X.

Cam Sample Could Flourish After Signing with the 49ers

GettyThe 49ers have signed defensive lineman Cam Sample to a one-year contract in free agency

Sample isn’t the flashiest name San Francisco has signed this offseason, but considering how many injuries this team has suffered over the past few years, he could be a very important addition. The Niners’ depth was tested all year long, particularly on defense, last season, which makes Sample a potentially important addition. If a guy like Nick Bosa isn’t ready for the start of the season as he continues to recover from a torn ACL, that could thrust Sample into action.

The 49ers have made a habit of unearthing diamonds in the rough on the defensive side of the ball in recent seasons, so it’s clear that they are hoping something similar can happen now that they have taken a flier on Sample. The upside is there, and if he can earn more snaps on a regular basis for the team, he could very well earn himself a much nicer deal when he hits the open market next offseason.

Owen Crisafulli Owen Crisafulli is an Email Newsletter Editor & Breaking News Writer at Heavy Sports. His work has also appeared on ClutchPoints, Sports Illustrated, The Sporting News, Athlon Sports, NESN Basketball Network, and FanSided, where he shared his insights on a variety of sports topics primarily surrounding the NFL, NBA, and MLB. More about Owen Crisafulli