Pro Football Focus analyst Mason Cameron identified each NFL team's ideal free-agent signing and 2025 draft pick. For the San Francisco 49ers, he focused on bolstering both sides of the ball with a key addition in the secondary and reinforcements along the offensive line.
With free agency approaching in less than a month, Cameron believes strengthening the defensive backfield will be a priority, especially with cornerback Charvarius Ward likely to depart.
Cameron named New York Jets cornerback D.J. Reed, who would reunite with his former head coach, Robert Saleh, now the 49ers' defensive coordinator, and the team that selected him in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, as an ideal addition.
"Highlighted in PFF's NFL free agency signings we want to see, Reed and the 49ers should have a mutual interest in reaching a deal to reunite the cornerback with his former defensive play caller in New York," Cameron wrote. "Robert Saleh highly values outside cornerbacks who can stand up in man coverage in his scheme, something Reed has excelled at, earning an 83.1 man coverage grade in their time together."
Looking ahead to April's draft, Cameron sees the 49ers' No. 11 overall pick as an opportunity to reinforce the offensive trenches. He views LSU offensive tackle Will Campbell as an ideal selection to bolster an often-overlooked offensive line.
"The 49ers and Brock Purdy are reportedly working on a massive extension, so moving to find more blocking for both him and Christian McCaffrey is a priority," Cameron commented. "With Aaron Banks' contract expiring and Trent Williams entering his age-37 season while coming off an injury, Campbell — or another highly touted tackle prospect — would address an immediate need on the interior and provide a long-term solution at tackle."
With Purdy nearing a lucrative contract extension, it makes sense for the 49ers to invest in protecting their franchise quarterback while preparing for Williams' eventual retirement. Adding Reed and Campbell would address two of San Francisco's most significant needs, strengthening both sides of the ball.
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