Could the 49ers be on the verge of a significant pass-rushing upgrade through free agency? It seems like the team might be looking to bolster their defensive front with some notable additions, potentially even bringing in a familiar face.
Fox Sports recently unveiled their updated top-100 list of available free agents for the 2026 season, and it's got the NFL buzzing. Among the big names, San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jauan Jennings is projected to re-sign with the team, landing at the 18th spot on this prestigious list.
But here's where it gets really interesting for the 49ers' defense: after a season where their pass rush struggled to make a consistent impact, Fox Sports is predicting that San Francisco will sign two outside free agents to strengthen their defensive line. One of these potential signings is a player who might follow his former coach, Raheem Morris, to the Bay Area.
Let's talk about Arnold Ebiketie. At 27 years old, Ebiketie saw his role diminish in Atlanta after the Falcons invested heavily in rookie edge rushers in 2025. Despite a strong showing of 12 sacks in the 2023-24 seasons, his production dipped to just two sacks in the most recent year, even as the Falcons' overall defense saw a significant improvement from 31 sacks to 57. But here's where it gets controversial: Could a change of scenery be exactly what Ebiketie needs to reignite his career? He demonstrated a 16.4% pressure rate, which, even with reduced playing time, would have made him one of the 49ers' more productive pass rushers last season. A one-year deal in the range of $6-8 million could be a smart move for both the player and the team, allowing him to reset and prove his worth for future contracts. The prediction is that he signs with the 49ers.
And this is the part most people miss: the other predicted signing is almost too perfect to ignore, a move that Nick Bosa himself might be actively campaigning for. We're talking about Joey Bosa, Nick's older brother.
Joey Bosa, a 30-year-old edge rusher currently with the Bills, had a healthy season in Buffalo, recording five sacks and, notably, leading the entire NFL with five forced fumbles. He's expected to command a salary similar to his previous $12.6 million deal. But here's where it gets thought-provoking: With only two playoff wins in 10 years, would Joey consider taking a pay cut to join his brother Nick with the 49ers and make a serious postseason run? The Bills are reportedly facing cap issues, which might lead them to prioritize younger talent over re-signing Bosa. The prediction is that he also signs with the 49ers.
While Joey Bosa's sack numbers might seem modest at five, his 52 pressures and 10 tackles for loss are impressive. However, it's important to note a dip in his performance later in the season. In the first nine weeks, he posted a 17.5% pressure rate, ranking 8th in the league. But after playing through injuries, including a hamstring issue, his pressure rate dropped to 6.3% in the latter half of the season, the lowest of his career. Would you be on board with these two signings, or do you think the 49ers should prioritize different players? Let us know in the comments!
The 49ers' current pass-rushing depth, relying on players like Clelin Ferrell, Sam O, Yetur Gross-Matos, and Keion White, is seen as needing reinforcement. The goal is to add much-needed depth, reminiscent of the days when their pass rush attacked opponents relentlessly in waves. This strategy would also provide valuable time for Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams to recover from their season-ending injuries and regain their top form. What are your thoughts on these potential moves?
