The San Francisco 49ers are experiencing a tough start to the 2024 season. Coming off another Super Bowl loss, the year is beginning to resemble the injury-plagued 2020 season, with numerous key players sidelined.
In Week 7, during a Super Bowl rematch against the Kansas City Chiefs, the injury concerns started early. Wide receiver Jauan Jennings missed the game due to a hip injury, while fellow receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. played only a few snaps before exiting with pneumonia. To make matters worse, star wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, who signed a major contract extension in the offseason, tore his ACL and MCL in the second quarter. The diagnosis was confirmed on Monday, and Aiyuk is out for the remainder of the 2024 season, with his return timeline still uncertain.
Injuries have not only hit the wide receiver group but have affected other position groups as well, and some players haven’t performed up to expectations through the first seven games of the season. While the 49ers may look to address some of these issues before the November 5 trade deadline, they should also consider signing a few free agents who could make an impact.
Here are three free agents the 49ers should consider signing:
**David Bakhtiari**
The offensive line has been a major issue for the 49ers, with the exception of All-Pro tackle Trent Williams and rookie guard Dominick Puni. Right tackle Colton McKivitz has struggled, allowing 19 pressures and six quarterback hits, even though he’s given up only one sack. To solidify the offensive line, signing veteran tackle David Bakhtiari could be a smart move. Once considered one of the best in the league, Bakhtiari has struggled with injuries since tearing his ACL in 2020 but could offer valuable depth and leadership. Released by the Packers in March, he believes he still has more to offer, as he mentioned on “The Adam Schefter Podcast.” The 49ers could benefit from his experience as a low-risk, high-reward signing.
**Richie James**
With the wide receiver room decimated by injuries, a free-agent signing to add depth could help. A reunion with former 49er Richie James could be advantageous. James, who started his career with San Francisco in 2018, last played for the Chiefs in 2023. Though he may have lost some speed, James could bring valuable experience to the receiver corps and could also bolster the special teams unit with his kick and punt return abilities.
**Myjai Sanders**
The 49ers’ defensive line hasn’t had the same impact on opposing quarterbacks as it did in recent seasons, highlighting a lack of depth. Myjai Sanders, a young defensive lineman who showed promise in his rookie season with the Arizona Cardinals in 2022, could be a solid addition. After brief stints with the Cardinals and the Texans, Sanders is still looking to make a mark in the NFL. Working with a coach like Kris Kocurek could help unlock his potential, and he could provide much-needed depth and pass-rush ability for San Francisco’s defensive line rotation.
As the 49ers navigate their challenging season, these potential free-agent signings could offer some stability and depth to a roster struggling with injuries.
