The San Francisco 49ers had an underwhelming season, and that led to multiple players leaving in free agency. The 49ers missed the playoffs in 2024, so they know they need to make some additions this offseason.
The 49ers lost multiple key starters on the defensive side, including Charvarius Ward, Talanoa Hufanga, Dre Greenlaw, Rock Ya-Sin, and Isaac Yiadom.
San Francisco didn't do much to improve that unit, but they could have the perfect gamble opportunity in free agency. And that player is cornerback Asante Samuel Jr.
With the NFL Draft 9 days out, here is an updated list of available free agents: pic.twitter.com/eRnEfdsy4E
— Mike Clay (@MikeClayNFL) April 15, 2025
49ers Should Take a Flier on Asante Samuel Jr.
Samuel Jr. came into the league as a first-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Chargers. The Florida State product has been healthy and available throughout the first three years of his career, but that didn't continue in 2024.
Samuel Jr. was dealing with a shoulder injury that limited him to just four games. Over 50 career games (47 starts), Samuel Jr. has 176 total tackles, 37 pass deflections, and six interceptions.
The former Chargers defender has quick feet, which allow him to quickly change directions in coverage. Before a shaky 2024 season, Samuel Jr. showed flashes of solid play in the secondary. According to PFF, Samuel Jr. posted a coverage grade of at least 65 and higher during the 2022 and 2023 seasons.
While he's only listed at 5-foot-10, 180 pounds, the 49ers should still check in and see what his price point is. Outside of Deommodore Lenoir, there aren't any other corners on the 49ers' roster better than Samuel Jr.
According to Spotrac, Samuel Jr.'s market value is listed at $11.5 million. The number may be too high for the 49ers' blood, but they currently have $38.8 million in cap space. The 49ers have the funds to sign Samuel Jr., and it would be smart to add a player with his talent to the team.