14 players inked to reserve/future deals, building depth and fostering competition as the 49ers strategically shape their 2026 roster.
The San Francisco 49ers took an early step toward shaping their 2026 roster by announcing the signing of 14 players to reserve/future contracts. The move allows the organization to retain depth and developmental talent as it transitions from the conclusion of the 2025 season into offseason preparations.
All 14 players finished the 2025 campaign on the 49ers’ practice squad and will officially roll over into the 2026 league year. While these signings do not guarantee roster spots, they ensure that the team maintains continuity and familiarity as offseason programs, OTAs, and training camp approach.
Players Signed to Reserve/Future Contracts
- Isaac Alarcón, OL
- Evan Anderson, DL
- Eli Apple, CB
- Junior Bergen, WR
- William Bradley-King, DL
- Derrick Canteen, DB
- Andrew Farmer II, LB
- Darrick Forrest, S
- Jalen Graham, LB
- Adrian Martinez, QB
- Drake Nugent, OL
- Brandon Parker, OL
- Malik Turner, WR
- Sebastian Valdez, DL
What Reserve/Future Contracts Mean
Reserve/future contracts are used by NFL teams to retain the rights to players who were not on the active roster at the end of the regular season. These agreements officially take effect at the start of the new league year on March 11, at which point the players will count against the team’s salary cap.
For the 49ers, these signings provide a head start on roster construction by locking in players who already understand the system, terminology, and expectations. Rather than entering the offseason with empty depth charts at key positions, San Francisco ensures it has a baseline group who can be ready to compete.
Building Depth and Competition
The list of signees spans nearly every position group, including the offensive line, defensive front, secondary, and skill positions. That variety reflects the 49ers’ emphasis on competition across the roster. Injuries defined much of the 2025 season, and maintaining capable depth will be a major priority heading into 2026.
Players signed to these deals will participate in offseason workouts and training camp, where they’ll have the opportunity to earn a spot on the 53-man roster or continue developing on the practice squad. Several of these players logged meaningful practice time during the season.
Looking Ahead
By securing these 14 players early, the 49ers create stability at the back end of the roster while allowing the front office to focus on decisions in free agency and the draft. Reserve/future contracts may not grab headlines, but they play a critical role in sustaining organizational depth and long term success.
As the 2026 offseason begins, these signings represent the first step in what will be a busy and pivotal few months for San Francisco.