The 49ers are in prime position to make another Super Bowl run this upcoming 2020 season, and many believe the team has the potential to become a dynasty for years to come. However, with 35 players set to become free agents (including 27 unrestricted) on top of looming salary cap issues, the certainty of the future is unknown. Given the Super Bowl window often closes faster than expected, here are the top ten 2021 49er free agents the team must re-sign in order to keep that window open beyond this season:
10) OL Daniel Brunskill – Brunskill has a legitimate shot at becoming the starting right guard on the 49ers offense and is especially good in the run game. Even if he loses the starting spot to Tom Compton, Brunskill's ability to play several positions along the offensive line at a strong level makes him a valuable piece worth keeping.
9) WR Kendrick Bourne – To be honest, it's almost impossible not to love Bourne with his radiant energy and a seemingly permanent smile. On the field, Bourne has become a reliable target for Jimmy Garoppolo and is proving to be a much-needed red zone threat. As he continues to improve his ability to get open and also make contested catches, Bourne is an essential receiver even if not considered to be a true starter.
8) CB Emmanuel Moseley – After Ahkello Witherspoon's injury followed by a slow return, Moseley really stepped up his level of play on the opposite side of Richard Sherman. While the futures of both Sherman and Witherspoon aren't entirely known, it's clear that Moseley has earned the right to be a starting cornerback for the 49ers.
7) S Jaquiski Tartt – Though statistically Tartt is not a "star," the defense's allowed points-per-game doubled from 14.9 to 29.4 when he was out with a rib injury. With that said, although he may not be the same caliber player as someone like Jamal Adams, Tartt's play-making ability makes him a valuable piece to this defense.
6) DT D.J. Jones – For someone who weighs 304 pounds, D.J. Jones is an extremely athletic player who anchors the defensive line with both his run-stopping and pass-rushing abilities. His high level of play creates a domino effect that allows the other defensive linemen to dominate the opposing offensive line.
5) CB K'Waun Williams – Williams is possibly one of the most underrated defensive players in the NFL. His ability to cover slot receivers, force fumbles, and get to the quarterback makes him a must-keep for the 49ers.
4) FB Kyle Juszczyk –Without a doubt, Juszczyk is the best fullback in the game. Dubbed the "offensive weapon" for his ability to run receiver-like routes, make plays with the ball in his hands, and be a dominant blocker who paves the way for running backs, Juszczyk is virtually irreplaceable on this offense.
3) CB Richard Sherman – Though Sherman is getting older and has lost some speed, he still continues to dominate on defense with his technique and football IQ, which earned him an All-Pro nod this past season. He remains a captain of the team and a mentor to all the defensive backs. The 49ers cannot afford to lose Sherman just yet –– especially because there is no clear replacement who can fit in his shoes.
2) LT Trent Williams – From a football perspective, Joe Staley will be missed for providing consistency at the left tackle position both from a skill and durability standpoint. Given the complexity of Shanahan's offense, having experience in this offensive system as Trent Williams does is extremely important –– especially with COVID-19 halting official team practices. That said, the 49ers must keep Trent Williams as any other replacement will likely come with a large drop in talent.
1) TE George Kittle – It's very hard to put into words just how much George Kittle means to the offense, team, organization, and the fans. Let's just put it this way –– if Kittle is wearing anything other than a 49ers jersey beyond 2021, things will get ugly!