Jonathan Allen. Nope. Joey Bosa. Nope.
On the second day of legal tampering, the San Francisco 49ers focused on special teams while adding some much-needed depth to the wide receiver room. Although the 49ers were one of the worst special teams groups in the NFL in 2024, the team missed some defensive line candidates to help bolster the trenches.
The reports about Nick’s older brother were back and forth between the reported offer and whether an offer was even in for Joey’s services. Either way, the Buffalo Bills landed the five-time Pro Bowler as the team continues to push toward a Super Bowl. The price tag was a bit high for a player whose role is a situational pass rusher, as the goal is to get Bosa to the finish line down the stretch.
Speaking of “out of the 49ers price range,” Allen’s deal with Minnesota was never an option for the 30-year-old defensive tackle’s services. The Vikings struck right after Allen’s deal announcement and announced an agreement with former 49er DT Javon Hargrave. Three years for 60 million wasn’t in the 49ers’ plans; credit to Minnesota for cashing in with a cheap, rookie quarterback contract.
Leonard Floyd found a home quickly as a Falcon. Atlanta reached an agreement with the veteran EDGE rusher on a one-year deal worth 10 million dollars. The Georgia native will bring his durability to a Falcons defensive line desperate for a consistent pass rush. Floyd’s release from the 49ers was an indication of the team’s confidence in signing Bosa, but neither will suit up for the 49ers in 2025.
Demarcus Robinson of the Los Angeles Rams in 2024 joined the 49ers offense following a season with 31 catches, 505 yards, and a career-high seven touchdowns for 16.3 yards per reception. Given the uncertainty of Brandon Aiyuk for Week 1, Robinson has a chance to slot in for meaningful snaps but faces a potential suspension from the NFL in 2025.
Luke Gifford and Richie Grant have a chance to contribute to the 49ers’ special teams and bring some stability to the group. Grant will also compete for a safety position next to Malik Mustapha with Ji’Ayir Brown and George Odum. As an Atlanta Falcon, Grant fell out of favor as a safety and contributed as a special teams piece. Gifford is a career special teams player.
Jason Pinnock will also join the safety group after a stint with the New York Giants. Robert Saleh and the 49ers defensive staff will be in charge of turning Pinnock’s reputation around as a coverage player who struggles downfield but has ball skills with a pick-six against the Miami Dolphins in 2024 into a potential safety option.
Overall, the names aren’t flashy coming from the second day. Special teams were a huge issue for the 49ers, and the team addressed their concerns with solid additions to the unit. The message is clear on day two: the 49ers are content with their 11 draft picks and will look to rebuild the roster through the draft.
As far as the available EDGE players, the 49ers will have their choice of Azeez Ojulari, Zadarius Smith, Joshua Uche, Matthew Judon, Charles Omenihu, Dante Fowler, Von Miller, and others to bolster their thin defensive line.
No matter who the 49ers bring in as an EDGE contributor, the price will have to be right. Day three will be interesting.
