The San Francisco 49ers have earned solid grades for their free agency moves this offseason. However, one longtime fan turned ESPN analyst isn't buying the optimism, arguing that the team has prioritized short-term fixes over long-term roster building.

"Adding a 33-year-old wide receiver (Mike Evans) doesn't solve any of the team's problems on the offensive line, defensive line, or secondary," Matt Miller wrote, identifying the 49ers among the teams that have taken a step backward during free agency. "This is another move that reeks of trying to fill holes instead of building for the future."


The offensive line remains a frequent point of frustration for the 49ers' fanbase, with the unit often viewed as a lower organizational priority. That could change in the 2026 NFL Draft, particularly with uncertainty surrounding left tackle Trent Williams, who remains in a contract standoff with the team.

The 49ers also failed to add a pass rusher in free agency, another need that could become a priority in the draft.

Miller believes that the situation could quickly become a problem.

"With Trent Williams' future uncertain, the weaknesses on both lines will soon be exposed in San Francisco," Miller wrote. "Drafting a left tackle of the future in the first round is the right move, and I like Utah's Caleb Lomu or Alabama's Kadyn Proctor as fits."

With an aging roster and just six draft picks, the 49ers must maximize every selection—something the team has struggled to accomplish in previous drafts. An infusion of young talent will be critical to keeping pace with division rivals like the Seattle Seahawks and the Los Angeles Rams.

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