The San Francisco 49ers are linked to potential roster moves and draft insights, including a focus on versatile players. Analysts discuss the team's needs and prospects for the upcoming season.
Key points
49ers linked to potential roster moves and draft insights
Focus on finding a legitimate WR2
Kamara could enhance defensive versatility
Scouts praised Kaelon Black and Gracen Halton
Jaxon Smith-Njigba had a standout season with Seahawks
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SAN FRANCISCO, CA - FEBRUARY 01: San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Torrey Smith and Chewbacca take a selfie at the UNICEF Kid Power Bay Area Celebration at De Marillac Academy on February 1, 2016 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Kimberly White/Getty Images for U.S. Fund for UNICEF)
SAN FRANCISCO, CA - FEBRUARY 01: San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Torrey Smith and Chewbacca take a selfie at the UNICEF Kid Power Bay Area Celebration at De Marillac Academy on February 1, 2016 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Kimberly White/Getty Images for U.S. Fund for UNICEF)
**Expert links former 49ers star to NFC West rival as best fit**
“Jaxon Smith-Njigba was incredible for the reigning Super Bowl champion Seahawks, but he shouldered a hefty 36 percent of Seattle’s targets and 37 percent of its receptions, both figures counting as the highest by any player on any team in a season over the last decade,” Okada wrote. “Mike Macdonald’s squad needs a legitimate WR2. Perhaps a guy who wins contested catches and is a red-zone threat, who will also willingly contribute in the critical Seahawks run game, would suffice.”
**Analyst reveals 49ers’ best undrafted free agent fit**
“San Francisco’s defense could also create an opportunity for Kamara. Under new defensive coordinator Raheem Morris, the unit may lean into more versatile fronts and deeper rotations, increasing the need for high-energy contributors along the defensive line.
Kamara produced in college, with his best season coming in 2024, recording a career-high 10 sacks and 68 pressures while earning an 88.5 pass-rush grade from Pro Football Focus. Although his sack total dipped to two in 2025, he still generated 59 pressures and posted a solid 75.5 pass-rush grade.“
****
“*Kaelon Black, Indiana (5-9 ½, 208, no 40)*: Said one scout: “Tough, hard-nosed son of a gun. A lot like of (now ). Comes in and does the dirty work. That’s who he is. He’ll get you 3 or 4 yards. He won’t break the long run but he’ll be there every time. Black can pass pro and all that. He caught the ball a lot better at the Senior Bowl. Late to mid-round pick. Get on a roster and the coach is gonna love him. Indiana won with those type of kids this year. Guys that do the right thing….
*…GRACEN HALTON, Oklahoma (6-2 ½, 298, 4.82, 2-3)***:**Started just 10 of 47 games over four years. “He’s a 3-technique, upfield guy,” one scout said. “I think he goes in the second. He’s really active, just really disruptive. Stronger than you think. People will discount him for (size, length) but the guy ran 4.8 and jumped 36 inches (36 ½ in the vertical, a position best). He’s got a lot of explosiveness and he plays really hard. There’s teams that try not to have guys like this and then there’s teams that say, ‘This guy’s too good a player. Let’s take him.’ I could see him going in the second and being a really good player.” Shortest arms (31 1/8) of the top 15 defensive linemen. Hands were 10. “He’s got quicks and he’s a terrific competitor,” a second scout said. “He is undersized. He does have a knack for slipping blocks and some penetration. The third round would be the high side for him. People would really value him more in the fourth and fifth. That’s where you take that kind of player.” Finished with 84 tackles (17 ½ for loss), 8 ½ sacks, three forced fumbles and two batted passes. “He can rush the passer but he really struggles against the run,” a third scout said. “I love his quickness and speed. Like him as a 3-technique that can rush. I thought fourth round because of the size.” Played tight end as a prep in San Diego. Four-star recruit.”
Q&A
What are the 49ers' current roster needs for the upcoming season?
The 49ers are looking for a legitimate WR2 and high-energy contributors along the defensive line.
Who is Kamara and how could he fit into the 49ers' defense?
Kamara is a college player with a strong pass-rush record, and he could enhance the 49ers' defensive versatility under new coordinator Raheem Morris.
What did scouts say about the 49ers' draft class?
Scouts praised players like Kaelon Black for their toughness and potential, comparing him to Isiah Pacheco, while Gracen Halton was noted for his explosiveness despite size concerns.
How did Jaxon Smith-Njigba perform in his last season with the Seahawks?
Jaxon Smith-Njigba had an impressive season, accounting for 36% of the Seahawks' targets and receptions, the highest figures in the last decade.
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