The San Francisco 49ers lost several key contributors on both ends of the field this offseason. Veterans who have been a big part of the team's success over the last couple of seasons left following the disappointing 2024 season. Deebo Samuel, Aaron Banks, Charvarius Ward, Jaylon Moore, Javon Hargrave, and Talanoa Hufanga are among the group of 49ers who will not be in San Francisco next season.
While letting these players walk is understandable for financial reasons, the loss of veteran competence, continuity, and locker room presence could hurt the 49ers in 2025 and beyond. That is why GM John Lynch should seriously consider bringing back one veteran free agent who hasn't signed with a new team yet.
The San Francisco 49ers Still Have a Chance to Re-Sign S Tashaun Gipson
Tashaun Gipson, who spent the past three seasons with the 49ers, remains unsigned in free agency. While the 34-year-old saw his role significantly reduced last season, he was a serviceable backup in the limited opportunity he got. Plus, he had an expanded role on special teams, contributing to the team in different ways.
The 49ers will continue to give Ji'Ayir Brown and Malik Mustapha all that they can handle. The two starters will get the lion's share of snaps at safety, while offseason acquisition Ritchie Grant will replace Hufanga as the primary backup. San Francisco also signed Jason Pinnock from the New York Giants who will be an option in the rotation.
While it may seem like there isn't a place for Gipson on the active roster, bringing the veteran safety to training camp and having him on the practice squad makes a ton of sense. As a full-time starter in 2022 and 2023, Gipson was a solid defensive back for the 49ers. Even though he will likely not get back to that level, it's hard to imagine San Francisco finding a better depth option to break out in case of an emergency.