The San Francisco 49ers have their work cut out for themselves this offseason. After missing out on the playoffs in 2024, the 49ers need to reshape this roster to get back into that Super Bowl contender bubble.
With a Brock Purdy extension on the horizon and Deebo Samuel trade sweepstakes underway, San Francisco will be an active bunch this offseason. Per Overthecap.com, the 49ers have $50 million in cap space for the offseason, but that number will increase after the latest update.
On Wednesday, ESPN's Dan Graziano revealed that the 2025 salary cap will balloon between $277.5M-$281.5M. That is a $22.1M-$26.1M jump from last year.
With the extra cash, the 49ers should go after linebacker Khalil Mack in free agency. The 49ers were tied for 26th in the NFL in team sacks (37) during the 2024 season. Yes, they have a stud with Nick Bosa screaming off the edge but they need another presence on the other side.
That's where someone like Mack could be beneficial. After spending the last three years with the Chargers, he's set to hit free agency.
Mack has been a stout force throughout his career and continued that dominance with the Chargers. Over three seasons with Los Angeles, the University at Buffalo product had 163 total tackles, 39 TFLs, 49 QB hits, and 31 sacks.
In 2024, Mack finished with 39 total tackles, nine pass deflections, and six sacks. Per PFF, he had a 90.4 overall grade (5th among 211 eligible defenders) and an 88 run-defense grade (2nd among 211 eligible defenders).
Even though he'll be 34 years old when the 2025 season rolls out, he's worth a one-year deal. According to Spotrac, Mack's market value is listed at $23.6 million. He's worth that kind of money for one season as the 49ers look to get back into the Super Bowl picture.
The best teams in the league have multiple effective pass rushers. San Francisco has one in Nick Bosa but they need someone else. Mack could provide that and the 49ers should look his way with the extra money they'll have to blow in the offseason.