Niner Noise
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2018 NFL free agency: 5 edge rushers 49ers should consider signing

By Florito Maniego

GLENDALE, AZ - OCTOBER 01: Defensive tackle DeForest Buckner #99 and defensive end Arik Armstead #91 of the San Francisco 49ers react after a defensive stop during the second half of the NFL game against the Arizona Cardinals at the University of Phoenix Stadium on October 1, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
GLENDALE, AZ - OCTOBER 01: Defensive tackle DeForest Buckner #99 and defensive end Arik Armstead #91 of the San Francisco 49ers react after a defensive stop during the second half of the NFL game against the Arizona Cardinals at the University of Phoenix Stadium on October 1, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /
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NEW ORLEANS, LA – OCTOBER 15: Alex Okafor #57 of the New Orleans Saints forces a fumble on Matthew Stafford #9 of the Detroit Lions during the first half of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on October 15, 2017 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – OCTOBER 15: Alex Okafor #57 of the New Orleans Saints forces a fumble on Matthew Stafford #9 of the Detroit Lions during the first half of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on October 15, 2017 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /

No. 5: Alex Okafor

Despite suffering a torn Achilles during Week 11 of the 2017 season, Alex Okafor would still be a great addition to any defensive front.

San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco 49ers /

San Francisco 49ers

Prior to signing with the New Orleans Saints last year, Okafor spent four years with the Arizona Cardinals. The 6-foot-4 and 261-pound defensive end had his best season in 2014, totaling eight sacks, 28 tackles and one interception.

In 2017, Okafor was a key player in the Saints’ defensive turnaround. Before his devastating injury, Okafor recorded 4.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and four pass deflections.

Okafor helped the Saints’ defense improve from No. 31 in points allowed in 2016 to No. 10 the following year. Okafor’s impact to the team is evident, which makes him a valuable disruptor to opposing quarterback.

Because he was in his contract year in 2017, Okafor is likely to test the free-agent market this offseason.

In need of an edge rusher, San Francisco is a possible destination for Okafor. With his experience and pass-rushing abilities, Okafor would be an immediate upgrade opposite of Solomon Thomas if he ends up signing with the 49ers.