The first was Air Force linebacker Ryan Watson, who can sign with a team after his military commitment is complete in April.
The New Orleans Saints, Denver Broncos, Carolina Panthers, and Cleveland Browns also expressed interest in Watson. He registered a career-high eight sacks to go along with his 37 combined tackles, 10 for a loss, and pass defensed as a senior in 2016, according to Sports Reference.
Yes, 2016.
Watson is two years removed from the game but was at an Arizona Cardinals minicamp in 2017. He was required to serve two years of active duty before receiving a "ready reserve" status, enabling him to join an NFL team.
The second linebacker the 49ers expressed interest in is Brandon Payer, who played college football at Colorado State-Pueblo but took part in Air Force's pro day. He had two 100-plus-tackle seasons (2016-17) during his four years with the ThunderWolves.