The 49ers’ roster is going to look significantly different than it did last season if they function properly this offseason. They’ll need to acquire new starters and more substantial depth at several positions. That doesn’t mean a maximum overhaul of the roster is necessary though, and they have a few players hitting free agency that they should certainly make an effort to re-sign.
Here are four pending free agents San Francisco should try to bring back next season. We skipped the exclusive rights free agents since they’re all very likely returning. Those are linebacker Elijah Lee, and defensive backs Tyvis Powell and Greg Mabin.
K, Robbie Gould
Gould is the only player among the 49ers’ free agents who might get a franchise tag. He’s been the most accurate kicker in the league over the last two seasons – an especially noteworthy feat playing eight games per year in Levi’s Stadium, which has notoriously poor kicking conditions. The talent gap in the NFL is closing, and kicking is becoming an essential part of winning games. There are ongoing talks between the 49ers and Gould on an extension, but it wouldn’t be a surprise if he tested the free agent market. San Francisco should make every effort to get him back in their uniform next season.
RB, Raheem Mostert
Mostert is a restricted free agent so there’s a better chance he stays in San Francisco. There would be reason to bring Mostert back based on his special teams prowess alone. His success as a running back last season only amplified his value. The 26-year-old had a career year on the ground with 261 yards and a touchdown on 34 carries. He racked up 250 of those yards and his touchdown on 28 rushes between Weeks 6 and 9. His season was cut short by a broken forearm against the Raiders. If Mostert can still be a dynamite special teams player while contributing 8-to-10 carries effective carries per game, he becomes one of the most indispensable players on the 49ers’ roster.
OL, Mike Person
Person had arguably his best season as a pro in 2018. He earned the starting right guard job in camp and held onto it by working as a consistently strong presence in the run and pass games. The 49ers can’t afford to let quality offensive linemen walk. Person turns 31 in June, but San Francisco doesn’t have much depth waiting in the wings to plug into his place. They should be able to get him back on a reasonable contract for a couple seasons while they establish a long-term answer at the position.
S, Antone Exum
Depth may be less of a concern if the 49ers are able to lure free agent safety Earl Thomas to Santa Clara. On the other hand, injuries in the back end of the secondary played a substantial role in San Francisco’s struggles on defense last season. Exum has experience at both safety spots for the 49ers and played effectively for most of last season. Bringing him back on a cheap deal to buttress the 49ers’ depth chart at a position carrying a huge question mark would be wise.
