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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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Oct 6, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Blaine Gabbert (2) after an Arizona Cardinals safety during the fourth quarter at Levi’s Stadium. The Arizona Cardinals defeated the San Francisco 49ers 33-21. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

Tier 1 Unrestricted Free Agents

A 2-13 record, so far, should put almost every free agent in danger of not re-signing with San Francisco.

And that’s likely the case with many of these starters and former starters. While one or two might return to the 49ers in 2017, it’s hard to predict the majority of these guys being re-sign targets.

Tier 1 Free Agents

  • K Phil Dawson
  • DT Glenn Dorsey
  • QB Blaine Gabbert
  • WR Jeremy Kerley
  • LB Ray-Ray Armstrong
  • LB Gerald Hodges
  • WR Quinton Patton

At 41 years old, it’s hard to see the 49ers re-sign kicker Phil Dawson, let alone Dawson calling it an NFL career this offseason.

Oct 16, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; San Francisco 49ers defensive end Glenn Dorsey (90) against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field. Buffalo beats San Francisco 45 to 16. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 16, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; San Francisco 49ers defensive end Glenn Dorsey (90) against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field. Buffalo beats San Francisco 45 to 16. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports /

Nose tackle Glenn Dorsey came back after a 2016 knee injury to help the run defense to a small extent. But his 37.4 overall grade, per Pro Football Focus, ranks dead last among all qualifying interior defenders. He probably won’t return either.

The Niners have zero reason to bring back quarterback Blaine Gabbert for obvious reasons. But after that, things get interesting.

Is wide receiver Jeremy Kerley’s solid production on the year simply a result of head coach Chip Kelly’s offense? Or is Kerley hitting his stride at exactly the right time. If Kelly stays, Kerley likely will too.

Not so sure about fellow wideout Quinton Patton though.

San Francisco would be smart to keep both linebackers Ray-Ray Armstrong and Gerald Hodges though. Armstrong was the best option alongside fellow linebacker NaVorro Bowman, but a pectoral injury forced Armstrong to the IR list  early in the season.

And Hodges’ 81.8 PFF grade is highest among all 49ers active defenders.