49ers named best fit for two free agents

The San Francisco 49ers have turned the page from the 2026 NFL Draft and are now focused on preparing for the upcoming season. While the team addressed several needs through its draft class, viable options remain in free agency if San Francisco seeks to further strengthen its roster.

Tyler Dragon of USA Today recently evaluated the top remaining free agents and identified ideal landing spots for each. Two of those players were linked to the 49ers.

The first is a familiar name: defensive end Joey Bosa.

"A tag team with his younger brother, Nick, in San Francisco is a perfect landing spot for Joey to finish out his career," Dragon wrote. "Joey tallied five sacks and 47 pressures for the Bills last season. He was Buffalo's best edge rusher during stretches of the 2025 season."

Bosa has frequently been linked to the 49ers, and that speculation is unlikely to end until his situation is resolved.

In the meantime, San Francisco may prioritize evaluating its current group, including third-round draft pick Romello Height. The additional reps carry added importance with Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams both working their way back from ACL injuries.

"At this point in his career, Joey's better suited to be the second or third-best edge rusher on a team," Dragon added. "He'd be that in San Francisco alongside his brother and second-year pro Mykel Williams."

Dragon also identified the 49ers as a fit for tight end Darren Waller.

With George Kittle recovering from an Achilles injury suffered during the playoffs, many wondered if the 49ers might address the position in the draft. They opted not to, though they did sign former Penn State tight end Khalil Dinkins as an undrafted free agent.

"Waller exceeded expectations in Mike McDaniel's systems after the tight end came out of retirement," Dragon wrote. "His six touchdown receptions were tied for a team-high in Miami last season. McDaniel comes from the Kyle Shanahan coaching tree, which would make the transition for Waller easier.

"George Kittle ruptured his Achilles during the 2025 playoffs, and there's uncertainty about the tight end's availability at the start of the regular season. When Kittle is active, the 49ers can utilize both pass-catching threats on the field in 12 personnel packages."