Santa Clara, CA – April 2026

The San Francisco 49ers have addressed a quiet need in their secondary following the 2026 NFL Draft, adding depth at safety after bypassing the position entirely during the three-day event.

San Francisco has signed former Miami Dolphins defensive back Patrick McMorris, a move aimed at strengthening competition heading into training camp.

McMorris entered the league as a sixth-round pick in 2024 and saw limited action as a rookie, appearing in six games primarily on special teams.

While he didn’t record significant defensive snaps early in his career, his versatility and willingness to contribute in multiple phases kept him in the league.

The 2025 season proved more challenging.

McMorris spent time moving between practice squads with multiple teams, including the Arizona Cardinals and New York Giants, without appearing in a regular-season game.

Now, he arrives in San Francisco with a fresh opportunity.

The 49ers had been expected to add a safety during the draft, but as general manager John Lynch explained, the board simply didn’t fall their way.

That decision left the door open for a post-draft addition — and McMorris fits the profile of a low-risk, high-effort signing.

His immediate path to a roster spot will likely run through special teams, where his experience could give him an edge.

At the same time, strong performances in camp could allow him to push for a rotational role in the secondary.

For the 49ers, this move is about depth and competition.

For McMorris, it’s another chance to prove he belongs at the NFL level.

And in a roster battle where every snap counts, his ability to contribute in multiple areas may be the key to sticking in San Francisco.