​After fielding one of the NFL’s oldest rosters in 2024, the San Francisco 49ers aimed to get younger last offseason by letting several veteran free agents walk and looking to the draft for replacements. Consequently, a large number of rookies saw significant playing time last season, yet San Francisco still reached the playoffs and emerged as one of the league’s most compelling stories. Despite a season hampered by injuries, the 49ers nearly captured the NFC West and advanced to the divisional round before succumbing to the Seattle Seahawks.
This offseason, with cap space and clear areas of need, San Francisco pursued upgrades in free agency and improved at wide receiver and linebacker, among other spots. They also acquired defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa, adding much-needed depth and experience at the position. Still, the team will lean on younger players in many areas and head into training camp with several questions. So, where else could the 49ers consider adding to their roster this offseason?
Offensive Line
The 49ers added Brett Toth, Vederian Lowe, and Robert Jones in free agency and drafted Carver Willis and Enrique Cruz Jr. Yet more depth on the line could be pursued. At the moment, an open competition appears likely at left guard among Toth, Jones, and 2025 seventh-round pick Connor Colby, which will determine who lines up beside Trent Williams. If no clear winner emerges, veteran, one-year契options in free agency could provide a bridge to 2026 and help fortify the line. There could also be additional upgrades to bolster depth. At tackle, Lowe serves as a primary backup, but Parker and Pleasants remain in the mix, leaving room for potentially better options. On the interior, the competition includes Nick Zakelj, Drake Nugent, Toth, and Jones, and camp will reveal which players earn a spot on the 53-man roster and whether there will be any mid-camp shuffles.
Pass Rush
With an eye toward 2026, the 49ers plan to lean more on younger players alongside Nick Bosa. At edge, Mykel Williams, Romello Height, and Sam Okuayinonu are the top options, but all are relatively unproven as pass rushers compared with the production the team got from Bryce Huff last season. Adding a veteran to bring defensive leadership and a steady presence could be a valuable addition. On the interior, the 49ers lack a proven edge rusher beyond Odighizuwa, with Alfred Collins, C.J. West, Keion White, Evan Anderson, and Gracen Halton among the younger options. After finishing 32nd in sacks last year, San Francisco could use a boost to pressure the quarterback more consistently.
Running Back
The 49ers are continuing to emphasize younger talent at running back, though specific details weren’t provided here. The team will likely balance the need for a dynamic, versatile backfield with the goal of developing younger players who can contribute as both runners and receivers.
In summary, San Francisco remains focused on adding additional youth while shoring up specific positions. The offensive line could benefit from further depth and potential competition at left guard and inside the trench, the pass rush could use veteran presence to complement its young talent, and the backfield will continue to be shaped by the development of younger players. If the 49ers decide to pursue additional pieces, they’ll likely target one-year deals or affordable veterans who can bridge to 2026, while continuing to develop a core group of young players who can help sustain their competitive run.