Before the chaotic summer that led to some questionable decisions by prominent higher-ups, the San Francisco 49ers had a successful offseason in acquiring players. They addressed some needs by drafting wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling, running back Kaelon Black, and offensive lineman Carver Willis, while re-signing important contributors like kicker Eddy Piñeiro and tight end Jake Tonges.
In free agency, bringing back linebacker Dre Greenlaw and wide receiver Deebo Samuel had more of a nostalgic feel, and signing wide receiver Mike Evans was the splashiest move. However, the most underrated transaction, and over time, perhaps the most important, is trading for defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa.
After a five-year stint in Dallas, Odighizuwa brings reputation to the 49ers. There's a lot to like about Odighizuwa's game. His availability speaks to his durability, as he hasn't missed a game. And while he's not the most proficient run stopper or tackler, ranking second and first the last two years in quarterback pressures speaks to his quick first step off the line.
Disrupting the opposing quarterback without the benefit of high sack numbers, in addition to his overall athleticism, confirms how much of a commodity on the D-line Odighizuwa is.
With the recent news that second-year defensive tackle Alfred Collins will miss the season due to a torn patellar tendon, Odighizuwa's value will be even more on display out of necessity. The 49ers have capable pass rushers and a plethora of options on the interior, none of which are as essential to impact and defensive success than Osa Odighizuwa.
More info on: Kaelon Black, Alfred Collins, Mike Evans, Dre Greenlaw, Osa Odighizuwa, Deebo Samuel, De'Zhaun Stribling, Jake Tonges, Carver Willis
Comments