Two weeks removed from the 2026 NFL Draft and with rookie minicamp just completed, the roster of the San Francisco 49ers is now north of 80 players at present. With eight draft picks and undrafted free agents in tow, the 49ers have increased manpower at a multitude of positions. It's still early May, and while the overall depth has improved, questions about the team remain.
Second edge rusher, interior performance, personnel on both lines, and Christian McCaffrey's backup could all be at the forefront of Kyle Shanahan's concern. And while roster reinforcements have been restored through free agency and the draft, one position has not been discussed enough in terms of depth: safety.
In their five combined seasons, Ji'Ayir Brown and Malik Mustapha have seven interceptions and 24 passes defensed. Those numbers don't suggest an impactful game-changer, but they're serviceable enough to warrant the bulk of the starts at safety. Marques Sigle started seven games and showed athleticism, but struggled in intermediate and deep coverages.
Patrick McMorris, Darrick Forrest, and undrafted Jalen Stroman round out the safety room. Still, on paper, those players look slated to go to the practice squad or be hopeful special teams contributors.
There's a plethora of players available. And while the 49ers are not resigned to bring in a player on a second tenure, considering they signed linebacker Dre Greenlaw back in March, former 49ers Jimmie Ward, Isaiah Oliver, and George Odum are unlikely to be brought back.
The 49ers have the NFL's most cap space, so there's no battle to acquire a safety they covet who's available. Given the state of the safeties on the roster as middling at best, sign a vet, and internal competition will follow. It's safety in numbers.
Here are some quick thoughts on safety options that could be available as free agents or via a trade.
Xavier Woods
Will be entering his 10th season this year. Good ball-hawk skills and instincts despite a lack of size and speed.
Taylor Rapp
Super Bowl champion with the Rams in 2022. Versatile and physical, but has had injury history, and his struggles against fast receivers.
Deon Bush
Just 12 starts in 103 games played. Athletic and aggressive, but more of a depth piece than a trusted starter.
Mike Edwards
Not the most sound tackler, but ball skills and instincts are elite. Four career defensive touchdowns are impressive.
Jamal Adams
The former sixth overall pick is becoming a journeyman with his next team being his sixth. Still a good athlete and leader, but the injury history in recent seasons is noticeable (37 out of 68 games played).
Ashtyn Davis
More of a rotational piece than a starter and gives up plenty of receiver receptions but has versatility and good instincts for creating turnovers.
Terrell Edmunds
Likely slated as a backup. Offers good run and special teams support but lacks speed and athleticism.
Jabrill Peppers
Fast receivers have targeted him in space. He's not an every-down defensive player, but his physicality and leadership qualities stand out.
Harrison Smith
Closer to retirement than returning for year 15. The physical tools have depleted with age, but the intelligence and experience are invaluable. Thirty-nine career interceptions.
Ugo Amadi
Reliable in special teams coverage and a good tackler, but has minimal production over seven years.
Donovan Wilson
Seventy-five career starts in seven seasons with Dallas. Coverage and tackling were below average last year, but he creates turnovers and provides a strong pass rush, dependent on the scheme.
Jordan Poyer
Similar to Harrison Smith, more likely to retire than continue playing. Could be placed in a mentor role to a young secondary, if signed. The football IQ, experience, and ball skills have resonated throughout his career.
Rayshawn Jenkins
More of a depth piece than a starter moving forward. Has good physical measurables and ball skills, but was less than subpar in coverage last season.
Ifeatu Melifonwu
Youngest free agent safety on the list at age 27. Lack of durability and experience has limited his opportunities and productivity. Physical style of play and athleticism are promising.
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