The San Francisco 49ers are set to be without star safety Talanoa Hufanga for an extended period, and former Dallas Cowboys safety Jayron Kearse could be a potential replacement.
Kearse, a three-year starter for the Cowboys, remains a free agent as Week 6 begins. With Hufanga placed on IR and Ji’Ayir Brown nursing an injury from their 24-23 loss to the Arizona Cardinals, the 49ers might look to bolster their secondary. Kearse, who has 54 NFL starts under his belt, is available, though his previous high contract demands have kept teams at bay.
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After signing a two-year, $10 million contract with Dallas, Kearse could be a valuable addition at a lower price if he’s willing to join a competitive team. Known for his strong playmaking ability, Kearse recorded 10 pass deflections, 2 interceptions, and 9 tackles for loss (TFLs) in 2021. He continued to contribute consistently in the following seasons, including 4.5 sacks over his three years with the Cowboys.
Meanwhile, the 49ers are dealing with Hufanga’s latest setback, just as he was returning from a 2023 ACL tear. He is expected to miss at least four weeks after tearing ligaments in his wrist. As a result, San Francisco promoted tight end, Brayden Willis, to the roster and will likely start Ji’Ayir Brown alongside George Odum. However, they are short on depth, with rookie Malik Mustapha and practice squad safety Jaylen Mahoney as the only other options.
