The 49ers had a very successful free agency period because of how well they retained their own top free agents. While there will certainly be more additions and deductions during the off-season, there are still a number of players available in the market for free agencies that can help San Francisco improve their roster ahead of the draft.
The depth of the angle is still a need, though they are likely to address it in the draft. Defensive end is another notable weakness in the roster, and this year’s draft class is not deep enough that the 49ers can easily find an impact player on Day 2 or 3.
Fortunately for San Francisco, there are some defensive goals available that could help the club in 2021. They are on the list of our list of free players.
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It’s a little surprising that Ingram is still available. He has dealt with a number of injury problems that have limited him to just 20 games over the past two years, but he has been incredibly productive when he does play. He has had 49 career sacks in 113 games and has had no less than 7.0 since 2014. Ingram did not hack a bag in seven games in 2020. However, a rotating role in Dee Ford’s style could suit Ingram as he looks for another big payday next season, and the 49ers could provide the opportunity.
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The four-time Pro Bowler is past his best and a year older than Ingram, but he has still posted 11 bags in 28 games over the past two years. Kerrigan has already switched to a rotating role on a good defensive line, and he will fit in well as a productive veteran presence in a group that needs depth.
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Griffen turns 34 in December and his days as a productive player from behind lie well behind him. Given what the 49ers are working on at the defensive point in the draft, a veteran who put up 6.0 bags in 14 games with two teams last year would not be a bad addition for a year-long flight.
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Okafor has just turned 30 and he has never been a super-productive pacer. His career high in pockets is 8.0 and that happened during his second NFL season in 2014. However, he will fit nicely into a Ronald Blair-type role, where he can fulfill a number of responsibilities on the defensive line in addition to work. as a pass rusher. The 49ers intend to re-sign Blair via NBC Sports Bay Area, but Okafor will be a good alternative if the deal with Blair goes through.
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Cornerback became a less urgent need with the return of Jason Verrett, Emmanuel Moseley and K’Waun Williams. However, the group was not the image of health and consistency, which makes a productive veteran like Hayward worthwhile. He may not start, but not having Verrett or Moseley available is a good assurance the 49ers do not have.
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San Francisco must bring Garland back so he can fulfill the role he had to play – a versatile, reserve-attacking linebacker who can start in a pinch. The 49ers liquidated that he had to be a full-time starting center, which is not optimal. Having his versatility as a reserve can help the offensive line depth of San Francisco a lot.