Now that the Super Bowl confetti has settled and the offseason clock is officially ticking, the San Francisco 49ers are staring down a pivotal stretch. After another deep playoff run, the focus shifts from game-planning to roster-building - and there’s no shortage of decisions ahead for John Lynch and the front office. A long list of pending free agents means this offseason could bring significant turnover, especially with several key contributors set to hit the open market.
Let’s break it down, starting with the unrestricted free agents - players free to sign with any team once the new league year begins.
Contracts Set to Void
Three notable names will see their contracts void this offseason, making them unrestricted free agents:
- EDGE Yetur Gross-Matos (28) - Averaging $9 million per year, Gross-Matos brought edge depth and rotational value, but now the Niners have to decide whether he’s worth a second contract or if they’ll look to get younger and cheaper at the position.
- WR Jauan Jennings (29) - At $5.94 million, Jennings has been a gritty, reliable presence in the receiving corps, especially on third downs. His physical style and chemistry with the quarterback room could make him a priority to retain - but he may also draw interest elsewhere.
- DT Jordan Elliott (29) - With a $3.5 million average, Elliott was part of the interior rotation, and while not a headline-grabber, he played meaningful snaps. His future in San Francisco likely hinges on how the team evaluates their defensive line depth.
Unrestricted Free Agents
Here’s where things get even more interesting. The 49ers have a long list of unrestricted free agents across nearly every position group. Here are the key names and their average annual salaries:
- LT Spencer Burford (26) - $2.7M A young offensive lineman with starting experience, Burford’s age and versatility could make him a valuable re-signing, especially in a league where O-line depth is gold.
- S Jason Pinnock (27) - $2.2M Pinnock contributed in the secondary and on special teams. The Niners will need to weigh his value against potential upgrades in the draft or free agency.
- DT Kevin Givens (29) - $2.05M A familiar face on the defensive front, Givens has been a steady rotational piece. His return likely depends on how the defensive tackle room shakes out in free agency.
- LB Luke Gifford (31) - $1.8M A veteran special teamer and depth linebacker, Gifford brings leadership and experience, but the team may opt for younger options.
- WR Kendrick Bourne (31) - $1.76M Bourne, back in the Bay after a stint away, is a known commodity. His locker room presence and route-running savvy could earn him another shot with the team - if the price is right.
- WR Skyy Moore (26) - $1.6M A younger wideout still trying to carve out a consistent role, Moore’s future may depend on what happens with Jennings and Bourne.
- LS Jon Weeks (40) - $1.42M The ageless long snapper continues to defy time, but at 40, the team could evaluate younger alternatives.
- LG Ben Bartch (28) - $1.33M A depth piece on the offensive line, Bartch offers flexibility but may face competition from draft picks or younger linemen.
- RB Brian Robinson Jr. (27) - $1.2M A physical runner who can handle early-down work, Robinson could be a valuable complement in the backfield - especially if the team wants to lighten the load on its lead back.
- P Thomas Morstead (40) - $1.2M Another 40-year-old specialist, Morstead’s consistency remains an asset, but again, age could be a factor in the decision-making process.
- LB Eric Kendricks (34) - $1.2M A seasoned veteran with a high football IQ, Kendricks brought leadership to the linebacker room. Still, his age and price tag could push the 49ers to look elsewhere.
- LB Curtis Robinson (28) - $1.17M A depth linebacker and special teams contributor, Robinson is a familiar face, but will need to compete to stick around.
- WR Trent Taylor (32) - $1.17M A return specialist and slot option, Taylor adds value in the margins, but roster space could be tight.
- K Eddy Pineiro (31) - $1.17M Solid but not spectacular, Pineiro’s future in San Francisco might depend on whether the team explores kicking competition in camp.
- EDGE Clelin Ferrell (29) - $1.17M Once a top draft pick, Ferrell has settled into a rotational role. The 49ers will need to determine if his production matches his price.
- RB Patrick Taylor (28) - $1.17M A depth back with special teams value, Taylor’s return likely hinges on how the running back room evolves.
- C Matt Hennessy (29) - $1.15M Interior line depth is always valuable, and Hennessy could be in the mix again - particularly if the team faces turnover at guard or center.
- LB Garrett Wallow (27) - $1.1M Another depth linebacker, Wallow’s return would likely be tied to special teams needs and camp competition.
Restricted Free Agents (RFAs)
The 49ers also have six restricted free agents - players with three accrued seasons whose contracts have expired. The team can retain them by placing a qualifying offer, which gives them the right to match any outside offer or receive draft compensation.
- EDGE Tarron Jackson (28) - $1M
- TE Jake Tonges (27) - $1.03M
- EDGE Sam Okuayinonu (28) - $1.03M
- **EDGE Robert Beal Jr.
(27) - $1.03M**
- CB Chase Lucas (29) - $1.03M
- DT Kalia Davis (28) - $948K
These are mostly depth and developmental players, but don’t overlook them. The 49ers have a history of developing rotational contributors from this tier, especially on the defensive line.
Exclusive Rights Free Agent (ERFA)
Only one player falls into this category - a player with fewer than three accrued seasons who can’t negotiate with other teams if offered a minimum contract.
- OT Austen Plesants (29) - $960K
If the team wants him back, it’s essentially a done deal. The ball is in the 49ers’ court.
What Comes Next
This offseason is going to test the 49ers’ front office creativity and cap management. With a deep playoff roster and limited space to retain everyone, tough decisions are on the horizon. Expect San Francisco to prioritize key contributors, lean on draft development, and continue their trend of finding value in the margins.
The names may change, but the standard remains. The 49ers are built to contend - now it's about retooling without losing the edge.