The San Francisco 49ers addressed the defensive line two weeks before the 2026 NFL Draft. Especially with Nick Bosa returning from a torn ACL. The All-Pro and SF defensive line will welcome a former Cincinnati Bengals pass rusher in Cam Sample.
The defensive end Sample agreed to a one-year contract with the 49ers in a late NFL Free Agency move, per NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero.
Sample once delivered his best season in 2023: 29 total tackles 18 solo stops and eight quarterback hits.
But he became hit with a huge 2024 setback in Cincinnati. Sample tore his ACL before entering the ’24 campaign and never played a single down.
Cincy managed to keep him around for another season. He responded by starting in two games while playing in 14 total. He delivered two sacks and tallied 17 total tackles (nine solo). Sample also slightly improved his tackle for a loss total to two compared to 2023. Lastly, the edge rusher compiled six QB hits.
San Francisco and general manager John Lynch will aim to reignite his career. The Bay Area has become known for revitalizing veterans along the defensive line.
Arden Key became one during the 2021 season and grabbed a career-best 6.5 sacks after his Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders departure. Samson Ebukam delivered his best sack campaign in SF before signing with the Indianapolis Colts. Even Clelin Ferrell produced a personal-best 13 QB hits in coming over to the 49ers.
This move Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan makes indicates this for the Niners: Offense will be the priority during draft weekend. The 49ers must address the future of past Pro Bowl wideout Brandon Aiyuk including exploring trade options. Left tackle and running back rise as two more pivotal needs with age effecting both spots.
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