49ers free agency moves: Javon Hargrave supercharges NFL’s fiercest defense

It was reported on Monday that Javon Hargrave will be signing for the San Francisco 49ers. The defensive tackle will sign a four-year deal worth $84 million. This is without a doubt one of the biggest moves so far in the early hours of free agency.

Hargrave joined the Philadelphia Eagles in 2020 from the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers drafted him in 2016 and the defensive tackle was with them for four seasons. He has established himself as one of the best in his position, and his addition to the already-scary 49ers defense is one to behold.

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The Fierce Defense of the 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers boasted the best defense in the league last season. The defensive unit is arguably the best in the franchise's history, producing an impressive defensive record. The defense was crucial to the team's success last season as they clinched a playoff spot.

The defense featured Nick Bosa, Fred Warner, Dre Greenlaw, Talanoa Hufanga, and Charvarius Ward. The team allowed the fewest points per game last season with just 15.

The 49ers' defense was either top or near the summit of almost every defensive stat in the league last season. This included scoring defense, rushing defense, interceptions, sacks, and forced fumbles. They ended the season one game away from the Super Bowl.

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The Addition of Javon Hargrave

Hargrave's career has witnessed a massive upturn since moving to Philadelphia, with career-high defensive stats and a Pro Bowl appearance. Establishing himself as a mainstay in the impressive Eagles' defense, the 30-year-old is deservedly cashing in big after seeing out his contract with the team.

The South Carolina State Bulldogs alum will be joining the 49ers coming off what is arguably the best season of his NFL career. He finished the season with 60 combined tackles (37 solos), 10 tackles for loss, 11 sacks, and 16 quarterback hits in 17 regular season games.

Hargrave will almost definitely become an impactful signing for the 49ers. His addition is highly likely to elevate the team's defense to a much greater height. It's evidently becoming clear that many offenses will go through a hard time playing against the team next season.

The defensive tackle is expected to line up alongside Javon Kinlaw and Arik Armstead in the interior next season provided the two stay with the team. This could definitely lead to a better defensive record than the previous season for the 49ers.