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San Francisco 49ers: 10 Free Agents to Consider Post Franchise-Tag Deadline

By Peter Panacy

Aug 20, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; A general view of the San Francisco 49ers helmet before game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The 49ers beat the Broncos 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Troy Babbitt-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 20, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; A general view of the San Francisco 49ers helmet before game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The 49ers beat the Broncos 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Troy Babbitt-USA TODAY Sports /
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November 20, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; New England Patriots middle linebacker Dont’a Hightower (54) before the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium. The Patriots defeated the 49ers 30-17. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
November 20, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; New England Patriots middle linebacker Dont’a Hightower (54) before the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium. The Patriots defeated the 49ers 30-17. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 1: Linebacker Dont’a Hightower

Like many of the big-name free agents on this list, linebacker Dont’a Hightower won’t come cheap.

Hightower has been extremely productive for the Patriots over his five-year tenure, earning him a Pro Bowl nod for the 2016 season. And with the 49ers needing all sorts of linebacker help outside of perennial All-Pro NaVorro Bowman, plugging a player like Hightower int the equation makes plenty of sense.

Former Niner Noise, and current Niners Wire, contributor Rob Lowder broke down the potential fit:

"Hightower’s primary responsibility as the ‘Sam’ would be stopping the run – his strongest attribute. He has the size to take on blocks at the point of attack. He’s capable of both rushing the passer and dropping into coverage without being considered a liability at his position."

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Remember, the 49ers were historically bad against the run last year. Addressing this issue figures to be a top priority for general manager John Lynch.

Bringing in Hightower, even if it’s a bit costly, would be a smart move.

Next: 5 Blue-Chip Players the 49ers Should Target in Free Agency

To make the idea even sweeter, Hightower will be 27 years old this season and entering the prime of his career.