49ers have big question to answer besides Brock Purdy contract extension
The San Francisco 49ers are focusing on extending Brock Purdy's contract, but they also face the critical task of addressing their cornerback position in free agency. The departure of Charvarius Ward has left a gap in their defense, which was not adequately replenished during the mass defensive exodus. Veteran cornerback options like Stephon Gilmore and Rasul Douglas could offer affordable solutions to bolster the defensive line-up. Balancing the financial commitments for Purdy and other key players like Fred Warner and George Kittle is crucial, as the team must ensure a strong defense to complement their franchise quarterback. Achieving this balance is paramount for the 49ers to reach their goals and succeed in the upcoming season.
The 49ers are heavily focused on negotiating a contract extension for quarterback Brock Purdy, which is a priority during their offseason plans.
Despite the focus on Purdy, the team still needs to address the cornerback position after losing Charvarius Ward, who was a significant part of their defense.
The 49ers did not adequately replenish their defense during the free agency period, leading to a gap that needs to be filled to maintain a strong defensive lineup.
Veteran cornerback Stephon Gilmore is suggested as a potential acquisition, as he could provide solid defensive capabilities at a relatively low cost.
The financial constraints due to upcoming extensions for Purdy, Fred Warner, and the new contract for George Kittle require careful budgeting to maintain both offensive and defensive strengths.
Considering Rasul Douglas, who has performed well for the Bills in recent seasons, could be another viable option for the 49ers' defensive needs.
Achieving a balance between a franchise quarterback and a robust defense is essential for the 49ers to reach their aspirations and succeed in the next NFL season.
The 49ers' offseason focus has been on the Brock Purdy contract extension.
They've still got another main need to address, though.
The Sporting News' senior NFL writer Vinnie Iyer has singled out cornerback as the 49ers' priority the rest of the way in free agency.
"The 49ers lost Charvarius Ward, and corner was the one position they didn't focus on replenishing after their mass defensive exodus in free agency," Iyer writes. "They should think about veteran mercenary Stephon Gilmore."
Gilmore would be a solid pickup. He started consistently for the Vikings in 2024.
The 49ers can't shell out a ton of money, given the pending extensions for Purdy and Fred Warner. Those will go along with new rich guy Kittle to fill up the 49ers' outgoing check book in a hurry.
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Gilmore would likely come relatively cheap at this point.
The 49ers could also pursue someone like Rasul Douglas, who was solid the last couple of seasons for the Bills.
Whatever they do, action is better than inaction.
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If San Francisco indeed shells out the big money for Purdy, they'll have to prioritize balancing things out to the defense just a bit. Somehow, it all needs to work together.
Only with a franchise QB and a strong defense can the 49ers get to where they want to go and wind up.
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