This focus comes on the heels of a disappointing 2025 campaign in that specific area, in which the 49ers ranked 29th in the league, according to ESPN, with a pass-rush win rate of just 29%. Such a figure underscores a pressing weakness, especially for a franchise with Super Bowl aspirations. It goes without saying that a team's pass-rush can help mask deficiencies on a defense that might loom elsewhere, particularly in the secondary.
A noteworthy element in the 49ers' struggles was the prolonged absence of star edge rusher Nick Bosa, who missed the majority of the season with a knee injury. Without Bosa's elite presence, San Francisco's defensive line struggled to consistently apply pressure to opposing quarterbacks, contributing to the low pass-rush win rate.
However, the run defense held its own, with the 49ers finishing 11th in run stop rate at 31%. While this demonstrates the unit's capability against the ground game, the lack of a disruptive pass-rush remains a glaring concern that must be addressed if the team hopes to contend in 2026.
Could Kayvon Thibodeaux be the answer?
As the 49ers look to bolster their pass-rush, recent rumours have linked them to New York Giants edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux.
The Giants, who have a surplus of impactful edge defenders including Brian Burns and Abdul Carter, reportedly view Thibodeaux as expendable and are more inclined to trade him rather than negotiate an extension.
The former no. 5 overall pick has seen his production decline in recent years, in part due to injuries. In 2025, Thibodeaux registered just 2.5 sacks over 10 games while dealing with a shoulder injury. This marked a continued downward trend after posting 5.5 sacks in 2024, a significant drop from the 11.5 sacks he recorded in 2023.
Despite some concerns regarding Thibodeaux's effort and toughness, his age and contract situation could make him an intriguing buy-low candidate for the 49ers.
At just 25-years-old and entering a contract year, there is reason to believe that a change of scenery—and a spot on a contending roster—might help Thibodeaux recapture his early-career form. The 49ers could potentially get the best out of him in a 'prove it' year and see him off in free agency as he hopes to land a big payday elsewhere.
Financially, Thibodeaux is due $14.75 million in 2026 as a part of his fifth-year option, and the Giants appear willing to accept a third or fourth-round draft pick in exchange for his services as they look to allocate their finances elsewhere.
Written By:
Bob served as a site editor for two FanSided sites from 2018 to 2025. He has also been a contributor to 49ers Webzone, part of USA Today Sports, since 2022. A lifelong sports enthusiast, Bob has written and edited numerous articles across both networks. In addition to sports writing, he has taken on creative writing opportunities in the past, crafting slogans and articles for clothing companies and analyzing odds for various sports betting outlets. When he isn't writing, Bob manages his family farm, established in 1928, and is the president and owner of Bob Heyrman Farms LTD. During his downtime, he enjoys dining in beautiful downtown Detroit and attending various sporting events.
All articles by Bob Heyrman
Bob Heyrman
Bob served as a site editor for two FanSided sites from 2018 to 2025. He has also been a contributor to 49ers Webzone, part of USA Today Sports, since 2022. A lifelong sports enthusiast, Bob has written and edited numerous articles across both networks. In addition to sports writing, he has taken on creative writing opportunities in the past, crafting slogans and articles for clothing companies and analyzing odds for various sports betting outlets. When he isn't writing, Bob manages his family farm, established in 1928, and is the president and owner of Bob Heyrman Farms LTD. During his downtime, he enjoys dining in beautiful downtown Detroit and attending various sporting events.
All articles by Bob Heyrman
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