10 Available Free Agents Who Could Still Help the San Francisco 49ers in 2016
By Peter Panacy
No. 3: Offensive Guard Amini Silatolu
We’ve discussed some of the concerns the Niners may have at the two guard positions entering 2016.
If both guards Zane Beadles and Joshua Garnett pan out, there wouldn’t be much need to sign a younger player like free-agent Amini Silatolu, who is only 27 years old. But if Beadles and/or Garnett struggle, and fellow guard Andrew Tiller isn’t cutting it, Silatolu would be a nice option.
Silatolu has plenty of injury concerns and has dealt with ACL injuries. A Trent Baalke special?
"Interior OL market drying up. One affordable option could be Amini Silatolu. He's coming off of a torn ACL, could be attractive to Baalke."
But he also protected Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton in a dynamic and unique offensive — not totally unlike what head coach Chip Kelly may run this season.
And there has to be something to be said for Silatolu growing up in nearby Redwood City, just outside of San Francisco and Santa Clara.
Why He Could Help
Health is the main factor working against Silatolu, and it might be the biggest reason he remains a free agent.
As a depth option, Silatolu is an upgrade over younger guards Marcus Martin, Ian Silberman and Brandon Thomas. And perhaps returning to Northern California would add the spark necessary to reinforce his game.
Next: Cornerback Chris Culliver