San Francisco 49ers: 5 options for Reuben Foster insurance

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HOUSTON, TX – DECEMBER 10: Lamar Miller #26 of the Houston Texans rushes with the ball as Brock Coyle #50 of the San Francisco 49ers looks to make a tackle at NRG Stadium on December 10, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images) /

No. 5: Brock Coyle

This isn’t the most attractive choice clearly as there were moments of struggle for linebacker Brock Coyle last season. Particularly against the pass was Coyle’s biggest weakness—per Pro Football Focus, Coyle surrendered 33 receptions for 323 yards and two touchdowns on 40 targets.

Coyle was also ineffective against the run, finishing with a 5.7 run-stop percentage. That mark is in the bottom half of the league.

But Coyle did excel generating pressure on the quarterback. According to PFF, Coyle’s 13.1 pass rush productivity ranks among the top of the free agent linebackers available.

And, as SF Gate’s Eric Branch noted in December after the 49ers win over the Tennessee Titans, Coyle showed improved played over stretches of the season:

"In his first four games after Bowman’s exit, Coyle earned these games grades, according to Pro Football Focus: 26.7, 43.2, 43.3 and 39.7. His grades in his past four games: 75.7, 73.2, 70.0, 77.0."

It would not be too unfamiliar of territory for Coyle either—as he did start for Foster during the middle of the season when the rookie injured his ribs—and it would keep the signing in-house, an aspect beneficial for continuity.

This signing would be the cheapest transaction they could make. PFF’s projected annual guaranteed money for Coyle is the veteran minimum.