The San Francisco 49ers still have a significant portion of the regular season ahead, but one key player could be on his way out after this year. Starting left guard Aaron Banks, a crucial part of their offensive line, might be leaving for a rival NFC West team as soon as next offseason. Bleacher Report’s scouting department recently predicted that Banks could sign with the Arizona Cardinals during the 2025 free agency period.
The Cardinals are expected to be looking for interior offensive line help, as key players like Will Hernandez, Evan Brown, and Trystan Colon will be hitting free agency. The article notes that while Banks’ career started slowly, he has been performing well in 2024. Heading into Week 9, the 27-year-old ranked 15th among guards in run-blocking with a 74.0 grade from Pro Football Focus and had allowed only 18 pressures.
Losing Banks would be a significant blow to the 49ers, as he has been a steady starter over the past three seasons, but retaining players can be costly, and the team has already made substantial investments elsewhere on the roster. With rookie Dominick Puni excelling at the other guard position, the 49ers may decide to look to the draft rather than extend Banks’ contract.
**Banks’ Contract Situation**
Banks, drafted in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft, was expected to develop into a key part of the 49ers’ offensive line, which he has, though his performance has been solid rather than spectacular. His rookie contract is worth $7.1 million, and for 2024, he carries a $3.74 million cap hit. Given his impressive performance in 2024, his market value is estimated at $6.9 million, which could increase if his strong play continues, making him an attractive free-agent option for teams like the Cardinals.
**49ers May Turn to Jon Feliciano in 2025**
If Banks departs, the 49ers might consider bringing back veteran guard Jon Feliciano as a more affordable option. Feliciano, who has signed one-year deals with the team in 2023 and 2024, is playing on a $2.75 million deal this season and could return in 2025. Although he has yet to play in 2024 due to injury, the 32-year-old was an important contributor last season, starting all three playoff games. With Feliciano’s experience and lower cost, the 49ers could opt for him as a way to preserve cap space and maintain stability on the offensive line.
