49ers linked to free agent safety Jordan Whitehead: A potential fit

Bleacher Report's Moe Moton recently ranked the top 10 unsigned NFL players under 30, and one veteran safety stands out as a potential fit for the San Francisco 49ers. Coming in at No. 7 on the list is Jordan Whitehead, a free agent Moton believes could fit with either the 49ers or Atlanta Falcons.

Whitehead spent the past two seasons (2022–2023) with the New York Jets, where he played under then-head coach Robert Saleh—now back with the 49ers as defensive coordinator. That familiarity with Saleh's defensive system makes San Francisco a logical destination.

"As the Jets head coach, Saleh saw Whitehead perform at his best with the help of his former defensive coordinator, Jeff Ulbrich," Moton wrote. "The 49ers need a placeholder in one of their starting safety spots as Malik Mustapha recovers from a torn ACL."

Mustapha sustained the injury during San Francisco's regular-season finale against the Arizona Cardinals in January. While the team remains optimistic about his recovery, he's unlikely to be ready for Week 1.

"Whitehead, who's already familiar with Saleh's system, could step in as a spot starter," Moton added.

Whitehead was productive during his time with the Jets, recording 186 tackles and six interceptions over two seasons, including a career-high four picks in 2023.

"He didn't force any turnovers with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last season, but a reunion with Robert Saleh could lead to another highly productive year," Moton added.

As the 49ers look to solidify their secondary heading into the 2025 season, Whitehead's system familiarity makes him a name to watch.