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49ers signing 'high-upside' defensive back to reserve/future contract

Originally posted on 49ers Webzone | By David Bonilla | Last updated Jan 6, 2025 12:40 PM ET

The San Francisco 49ers have begun preparations for their 2025 roster. A key early step in this process involves signing developing talent to reserve/future contracts. According to Justin Melo of The Draft Network, the 49ers have signed defensive back Jaylen Mahoney to one of these deals.

"SF keeps a high-upside rookie in the building," wrote Melo.

The #49ers are signing DB Jaylen Mahoney to a futures/reserve contract, per source.
The UDFA out of @VandyFootball spent the majority of his rookie season developing on the practice squad.

SF keeps a high-upside rookie in the building.
— Justin M (@JustinM_NFL) January 6, 2025

Reserve/future contracts allow teams to secure the rights to players for the upcoming league year. These contracts take effect on March 12, marking the start of the new league year, at which point the players count against the salary cap.

Mahoney spent the 2024 season on the 49ers' practice squad, earning elevations for three games: Week 4 against the New England Patriots, Week 6 against the Seattle Seahawks, and Week 7 against the Kansas City Chiefs. Mahoney played 30 special teams snaps and recorded three tackles in those appearances.

The 49ers originally signed the Vanderbilt product as an undrafted free agent following the 2024 NFL Draft.

This article first appeared on 49ers Webzone and was syndicated with permission.

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