NFL Free Agency: 10 Under-the-Radar Players the 49ers Should Sign

Oct 16, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills wide receiver Justin Hunter (17) jumps in the stands after scoring a touchdown during the second half against the San Francisco 49ers at New Era Field. Buffalo beat San Francisco 45-16. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 4, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Washington Redskins center John Sullivan (56) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Redskins 31-23. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 9: Center John Sullivan

2016 Cap Hit: $728,824

Who knows if incumbent 49ers center Daniel Kilgore (leg) is ready to go by Week 1 of the 2017 season. And fans sure aren’t clamoring for backup center Marcus Martin to be back next year.

The Niners need depth along the offensive line, and going with a veteran presence isn’t a bad idea.

Especially if he comes on the cheap.

Current Washington Redskins center John Sullivan was a regular starter for the Minnesota Vikings, dating back to 2009, before signing with Washington last offseason. He was relegated to backup duties this year, and that’s primarily what he should do with the 49ers if signed.

Contractually, the 31-year-old lineman wouldn’t cost much. And it’s likely this would be his last NFL deal.

But a veteran O-line presence to back up Kilgore would be a major plus for this unit in 2017.