The San Francisco 49ers are eyeing a potential game-changer in their secondary as they consider acquiring Riq Woolen, Seattle's former first-round pick, this offseason.
The 49ers, heading into the 2026 offseason, have a solid roster but could use some reinforcement in their secondary. After losing Charvarius Ward to free agency last year, San Francisco tried to patch the cornerback position with a mix of seasoned vets and promising young talent. While the group held its own, it lacked that standout figure who forces opposing offenses to adjust their game plans.
Enter Riq Woolen. Fresh off a Super Bowl victory with the Seattle Seahawks, Woolen is poised to be one of the hottest defensive commodities on the market. Standing tall at 6-foot-4 and weighing 210 pounds, he combines size with blistering speed, making him a rare athletic specimen.
Woolen's unique blend of length, quick recovery, and spatial fluidity allows him to lock down bigger receivers while keeping up with speedsters downfield. For a 49ers defense in need of a dominant CB1, Woolen's skill set is precisely what's missing.
San Francisco's cornerback room remains largely intact, but no one has emerged as the definitive top choice since 2025. Deommodore Lenoir is a steady presence with a long-term deal, yet the defense still craves a dynamic playmaker who can shift coverage schemes and generate turnovers.
Woolen fits that mold perfectly. Over his career, he's racked up 12 interceptions and 53 pass breakups in 64 games.
His performance during Seattle’s Super Bowl run only boosted his stock. Targeted 17 times in three playoff games, Woolen allowed just eight completions for 168 yards, along with four pass breakups.
His speed and ability to close gaps were on full display, shutting down open windows and causing hesitation in quarterbacks.
Adding an athlete of Woolen’s caliber could immediately elevate the 49ers’ secondary. Defensive coordinators love corners who can handle one-on-one matchups, freeing safeties for creative blitzes and disguises. Woolen's ability to keep pace and contest catches would allow the 49ers to maintain their aggressive defensive style.
While a projected four-year, $55 million contract is a significant investment, especially with their current financial commitments, teams with championship aspirations aren't afraid to make bold moves. Woolen could be the missing piece that pushes San Francisco's defense to the next level.