The Draft Network's Justin Melo recently identified veteran safety Julian Blackmon as one of the most intriguing defensive free agents still available, highlighting his starting experience. The San Francisco 49ers were included among the three potential NFL fits Melo named in his analysis of the defender.
Blackmon, a five-year NFL veteran, spent his entire career with the Indianapolis Colts, appearing in 66 games with 62 starts. During that span, he recorded 300 total tackles (13 for loss), 10 interceptions, one touchdown, 21 passes defensed, two forced fumbles, four fumble recoveries, and 1.5 sacks, per Pro Football Reference.
Last season, Blackmon posted career highs with a 69.3 overall defensive grade and a 73.5 coverage grade from Pro Football Focus while logging 1,083 defensive snaps.
The 49ers could be in the market for safety help after losing Talanoa Hufanga in free agency. It was also recently revealed that Malik Mustapha, a 2024 fourth-round draft pick, suffered an ACL injury in last season's finale against the Arizona Cardinals. Although the team drafted Marques Sigle in the fifth round this year, Melo suggests the addition of Blackmon could provide much-needed depth and leadership.
Melo expressed optimism about the long-term potential of Mustapha and Ji'Ayir Brown, a 2023 third-round pick, as the future starting tandem in the secondary. He also believes both players will benefit from the return of defensive coordinator Robert Saleh.
"Adding Blackmon would be about experienced depth and familiarity," Melo explained. "He'd immediately become the third-best safety on the team while being an experienced shoulder for Brown and Mustapha to lean on. Furthermore, Kyle Shanahan's new assistant head coach is Gus Bradley, who was Blackmon's defensive coordinator for three seasons (2022-24) in Indianapolis."
Last year, Blackmon visited with the 49ers before re-signing with the Colts on a one-year deal.
In addition to the 49ers, Melo listed the Cleveland Browns and Carolina Panthers as potential destinations for Blackmon, noting that Indianapolis has shown little interest in bringing the 26-year-old safety back.
Melo added, "Teams searching for coverage help should begin showing interest as training camp approaches."