49ers bolster linebacker corps with Garret Wallow acquisition, while Ben Bartch lands on injured reserve, impacting offensive line depth.
The San Francisco 49ers continued to fine-tune their roster heading into the final stretch of the regular season, claiming linebacker Garret Wallow off waivers while placing offensive lineman Ben Bartch on injured reserve. The move reflects both an immediate need on special teams and a desire to bolster defensive depth as the team gears up for a playoff push.
Wallow arrives in Santa Clara with experience across multiple franchises and a reputation as a versatile defender. Originally drafted by the Houston Texans in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Wallow has primarily played a role on special teams during his five-year NFL career. According to the claim announcement, he has appeared in 42 games with 36 tackles, 1.0 sack, and 11 special teams tackles over stints with the Houston Texans, Tennessee Titans, and Denver Broncos. His most recent action came this season in Denver, where he logged seven games and five special teams tackles before being waived on December 6.
For San Francisco, Wallow’s profile fits an immediate need. The team has battled injuries at linebacker throughout the year, and special teams coordinator Brant Boyer has leaned heavily on rotational players to stabilize coverage units. Wallow’s background, both as a college defensive captain and a dependable NFL special teamer, positions him as an instant contributor in the third phase of the game. Expect to see Wallow rotate in at linebacker as well, that specific position group is thin right now and needs depth heading into the post season.
Before entering the NFL, Wallow was a standout at TCU, where he amassed 293 tackles, 9.5 sacks, and three forced fumbles in 48 games. His range, tackling ability, and leadership traits were central to his rise, and the 49ers will likely look to those qualities as they integrate him into a defense already stacked with established stars.
The corresponding roster move sends offensive lineman Ben Bartch to injured reserve. Bartch appeared in six games this season, making two starts, and provided depth along the interior offensive line. His absence will test San Francisco’s flexibility up front since there are injuries on the interior offensive line as well. Though the team has weathered similar challenges throughout the year thanks to strong rotational depth and Kyle Shanahan’s adaptable scheme they should be okay rotating between Spencer Burford and Connor Colby.
Ultimately, the addition of Wallow is a low-risk, potentially high-value opportunity for the 49ers. With postseason football looming, proven special teams players and assignment sound defenders grow increasingly important. San Francisco is betting that Wallow can offer both just in time for the season stretch and then the games that matter most, the postseason.