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NFL Free Agency: Breaking Down the 49ers Free Agents, Cap Casualties in 2017

By Peter Panacy

Nov 20, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Blaine Gabbert (2) before the game against the New England Patriots at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 20, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Blaine Gabbert (2) before the game against the New England Patriots at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 4, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Rod Streater (81) takes the field before the game against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 4, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Rod Streater (81) takes the field before the game against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /

Tier 2 Unrestricted Free Agents

Our second tier of free agents primarily focuses on guys who might not have been tabbed as starters but played a crucial backup or reserve role at various points throughout the season.

These guys have seen more snaps than Tier 3 players and, in some cases, have moved into starting roles at one point or another.

Tier 2 Free Agents

  • ILB Michael Wilhoite
  • RB Shaun Draughn
  • WR Rod Streater
  • RB DuJuan Harris
  • ILB Nick Bellore

Things get a little interesting in Tier 2. Let’s start off with the easiest — backup running back.

Both tailbacks Shaun Draughn and DuJuan Harris are journeymen runners. The 49ers seem to like Draughn a bit more, as evidenced by the multiple releasings and re-signings Harris has gone through this season. Personally, Harris seems to offer a bit more of a dynamic look though.

It wouldn’t be surprising to see the Niners bring at least one back for the purposes of camp competition next year.

Wide receiver Rod Streater is likely gone, as the 49ers need to revamp their receiving corps. And we all know how weak San Francisco’s interior linebacker position has been this season. It seems doubtful the Niners would waste a roster spot for either linebacker Michael Wilhoite or Nick Bellore.