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49ers Stockpile Talent with Eight Undrafted Rookie Free Agents
TL;DR
The San Francisco 49ers have signed eight undrafted rookie free agents to enhance their roster depth. Notably, tight end Khalil Dinkins from Penn State received a $275,000 guarantee as a potential addition to the 53-man roster.
Key points
- 49ers signed eight undrafted rookie free agents
- Khalil Dinkins received a $275,000 guarantee
- Dinkins is a candidate for the 53-man roster
- 49ers focus on finding overlooked talent
- George Kittle's injury creates opportunity for Dinkins
Penn StateSan Francisco 49ersKhalil DinkinsGeorge Kittle
49ers Stockpile Talent with Eight Undrafted Rookie Free Agents
While the drama of the NFL Draft often centers on the bright lights of the first round, the San Francisco 49ers have long understood that a championship roster is built in the shadows of the post draft frenzy. On Sunday, April 26, 2026, the team continued that tradition, announcing they have agreed to terms with eight undrafted rookie free agents (UDFAs) to bolster depth across the roster.
Priority Targets on Offense
The 49ers’ commitment to finding "diamonds in the rough" is most evident in the signing of TE Khalil Dinkins (Penn State). With George Kittle rehabilitating a torn Achilles, Dinkins, who received a significant $275,000 guaranteed, is a legitimate candidate for the 53 man roster. A physical blocker with a 4.72-second 40-yard dash, Dinkins fits the "Y-tight end" mold the Niners crave.
In the receiving corps, the team added high upside speed. WR Wesley Grimes (NC State) is the literal definition of a "vertical threat," having been clocked at a blistering 4.24 during summer workouts. He is joined by WR Will Pauling (Notre Dame), a shifty slot option who stepped up as a primary target for the Irish last season.
Defensive Trench Warfare
True to form, the 49ers prioritized the defensive line, signing three versatile prospects:
- James Thompson (Illinois): Standing 6-foot-6, Thompson received $280,000 guaranteed, signaling the team views him as a high floor developmental piece for the interior.
- Mikail Kamara (Indiana): An undersized but productive pass rusher who tallied 10 sacks in 2024.
- Bryson Eason (Tennessee): A massive 323 pound run-stuffer intended to eat up space in the A gap.
Secondary and Special Teams
The 49ers also addressed the back end of their defense with S Jalen Stroman (Notre Dame). Many analysts were surprised Stroman wasn't selected in the late rounds. His physical playstyle and football IQ make him a strong candidate to push for a special teams role early on.
Q&A
Who are the undrafted rookie free agents signed by the 49ers?
The 49ers signed eight undrafted rookie free agents, including tight end Khalil Dinkins from Penn State.
What is the significance of Khalil Dinkins' signing for the 49ers?
Khalil Dinkins' signing is significant as he could fill the gap left by George Kittle's injury, with a $275,000 guarantee indicating the team's confidence in his potential.
How does the 49ers' approach to undrafted free agents impact their roster?
The 49ers' strategy of signing undrafted free agents helps them build a competitive roster by identifying overlooked talent that can contribute significantly.
