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Why the 49ers Were Wise to Avoid These 5 Free Agents

By Akash Anavarathan

Feb 9, 2017; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan and chief executive officer Jed York during a press conference at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 9, 2017; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan and chief executive officer Jed York during a press conference at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 4, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Calais Campbell (93) against the Washington Redskins at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Redskins 31-23. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 4, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Calais Campbell (93) against the Washington Redskins at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Redskins 31-23. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 3: Defensive End Calais Campbell

At 30 years old, it seemed like DE Calais Campbell might have one more small run left in him in Arizona. Nope, think again, the Jacksonville Jaguars signed Campbell to an outrageous four-year, $60 million deal.

The 49ers have been looking to add defensive line depth, even with the signing of DT Earl Mitchell. Not only would it strengthen the 49ers DL, but also weaken a division rival in Arizona.

But Campbell’s contract is so far out the 49ers’ ballpark, that it was wise for them to avoid Campbell.

Spending his entire nine-year career in Arizona, Campbell has racked up 382 tackles and 56.5 sacks. He’s been a formidable part of their defensive line, but at an inclined age, can he continue to perform at the same level?

That’s the most important question to answer and clearly Jacksonville thinks he can. It was wise for John Lynch and Co. to look younger to shore up their defensive line and avoid a prized free agent in Campbell.