The 49ers needed to add some defensive end help in free agency, and they made a pair of FA signings, but that room could still use some help.
They added Clelin Ferrell and Austin Bryant, but they’re both unproven players. They’re projects the 49ers are hoping they can develop into starter-quality defensive linemen. It’s worked in the past, but it’s also a tenuous place to put perhaps the most important defensive position. The team is also banking on second-year DE Drake Jackson breaking out.
It would behoove them to add a proven edge rusher they can rely on should their projects not work out. They cannot go into a year where they’re relying solely on Nick Bosa to generate pressure off the edge. Arik Armstead and newly-added Javon Hargrave will do some of the work pushing the pocket, but edge pressure matters.
There are still a handful of free agent pass rushers who can help the 49ers and perhaps help oversee the development of a couple of the other DEs on the roster.
Here are four free agents San Francisco could target to help bolster their depth at DE: