San Francisco 49ers: Free Agency Needs

The San Francisco 49ers have been to the NFC title game three times in four years but lost their rookie quarterback Brock Purdy due to an elbow injury. This article will explore their biggest needs, most notable free agents, potential targets, and cap situations in the upcoming 2023 NFL free agency.

The 49ers are projected to have just under $8 million in cap space, but this should not limit their ability to make some important moves. This guide also identifies the team's biggest needs and potential targets.

One such need, a veteran quarterback, has been addressed by the rumored signing of Sam Darnold on the first day of the legal tampering period, and they have also made a huge splash by signing defensive tackle Javon Hargreaves to a reported four-year $84m deal from the Eagles.

Notable free Agents

It's doubtful that San Francisco will re-sign quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, who is one of their notable impending free agents. Although Garoppolo will be a sensible backup for Lance and Purdy during their recovery, coach Kyle Shanahan has stated that he does not see Garoppolo returning. Shanahan was quoted by Nick Shook of NFL.com as saying:

"I don't see any scenario of that."

On the other hand, the 49ers might have had a better chance of retaining right tackle Mike McGlinchey, however, it is reported he is heading to Denver to protect Russell Wilson

However, safety Tashaun Gipson has signed a new one-year $2.9m deal.

49ers' Biggest Needs

Cornerback

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Signing a top-tier cornerback like James Bradberry, who is projected to cost $15.1 million annually, may not be financially feasible. However, acquiring a second-tier cornerback such as Rock Ya-Sin or Anthony Averett from the Las Vegas Raiders would be a sensible option

Safety

New Orleans Saints v Atlanta Falcons

Even after the re-signing of Gipson, they will still need to add to the safety room as the 49ers are likely to lose their other starter, Jimmie Ward. Unfortunately, bargain signings at the safety position may not be possible, as free agent safeties Jessie Bates III, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Jordan Poyer, and Vonn Bell are among the top players available, and their services will likely come at a high cost.

San Francisco's chances of a bargain may have decreased when the New York Jets acquired Chuck Clark from the Baltimore Ravens.

If the team has the financial means to do so, investing in the safety position would be a logical choice.