The San Francisco 49ers are making waves in free agency, and the potential addition of Mike Evans could elevate their offense to new heights. But John Lynch, the team's general manager, still has some work to do on the defensive side.
Even with Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams healthy for the 2026 season, the Niners need to bolster their edge-rushing rotation. Enter Leonard Floyd, a name that’s becoming hard to ignore as the dust settles from the initial free agency frenzy. Reuniting Floyd with his former defensive coordinator, Raheem Morris, could be a savvy move for San Francisco.
Floyd, who could return to the 49ers for a modest $8.9 million, had a standout season during his brief tenure with the team. His 8.5 sacks were a beacon of hope in a year marred by injuries post-Super Bowl run. Despite his impressive performance, he was released in a cost-cutting decision that the team might now be reconsidering.
The attempt to replace Floyd with Williams and Bryce Huff didn’t pan out as expected. With Huff retired and Williams still developing, the need for a seasoned edge rusher is evident.
Floyd's stint with the Atlanta Falcons under Raheem Morris saw him as a veteran leader among young talents, though his production dipped due to limited playing time behind first-round picks. Now, the opportunity for a reunion in San Francisco is ripe.
Floyd knows Morris' defensive scheme and has existing chemistry with the 49ers' defense. At 33, he might not be a full-time starter, but his experience would provide invaluable depth. His presence would allow Bosa and Williams to rotate more effectively, keeping them fresh for the long haul.
With Spotrac estimating Floyd’s cost at around $8.9 million annually, this move seems like a no-brainer for the 49ers. Adding Floyd would not only enhance Morris' defensive unit but also give Lynch greater flexibility in the upcoming NFL Draft.
This potential signing could be the strategic move San Francisco needs in this phase of free agency, setting them up for success in the coming season.