A Fairly Quiet Free Agency Could be Expected for 49ers this Offseason

After watching a wave of core contributors walk out the door last offseason, the San Francisco 49ers enter this year’s free agency period in a far more manageable position.

A year ago, San Francisco was gutted by departures across both sides of the ball. Multiple starters cashed in elsewhere, forcing the front office to reshuffle the roster on the fly. That exodus played a role in the uneven depth that showed up once the injuries struck again.

This time around, the list of potential free agent losses is smaller. 

That doesn’t mean the offseason will be quiet. But compared to last year, the 49ers aren’t losing foundational pieces at premium positions.

Here’s a look at the most notable free agents San Francisco must account for heading into the spring.

Jennings headlines the group and is a player it would truly hurt to lose.

After signing a modest two year deal in 2024, Jennings rewarded the 49ers with back-to-back productive seasons. He followed up a breakout 2024 campaign with another solid year in 2025, posting 55 receptions for 643 yards and nine touchdowns while battling through injuries early in the season.

Jennings has proven himself as a trusted target particularly in the red zone and on third down. Given the rising cost of wide receivers and his consistent production, he’s positioned to earn the largest contract of his career on the open market.

Whether the 49ers can or should match that price is one of the biggest questions of their offseason.

After starting extensively early in his career, Burford’s role fluctuated dramatically over the last two seasons. He spent much of 2024 as a backup before being pressed into starting again in 2025 due to injuries along the interior offensive line. Offensive line help is always valued around the league, and Burford’s experience at multiple spots could earn him interest elsewhere. 

Gross-Matos’ tenure in San Francisco never quite materialized the way the team hoped.

Signed to provide pass-rush depth and rotational value, injuries and inconsistency limited his impact across two seasons. While he’s still relatively young and will likely attract interest on a short term deal, his departure wouldn’t dramatically alter the 49ers’ defensive outlook.

If there’s one player outside of Jennings that San Francisco should prioritize retaining, it’s Piñeiro.

The veteran kicker delivered an outstanding season, converting 28 of 29 field goal attempts. Kyle Shanahan has already expressed interest in bringing him back, but strong league-wide demand could drive up his price.

Tonges is a restricted free agent, giving the 49ers significant control over his future.

While his run blocking left something to be desired, Tonges flashed as a pass catching option and proved serviceable as depth in a tight end room that may undergo changes. At just 27 years old, he profiles as a logical candidate for a low risk extension.

Unlike last offseason, most of the 49ers potential free agents fall into the “useful but replaceable” category, giving the front office flexibility as it balances re-signings, draft priorities, and potential roster refreshes.

The losses will inevitably come. They always do. But this time, San Francisco is far better positioned for them.