NFL free agency: 5 under-the-radar signings 49ers could make in 2018

SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 26: C.J. Beathard #3 of the San Francisco 49ers gets sacked by Sheldon Richardson #91, Frank Clark #55 and Branden Jackson #67 of the Seattle Seahawks during their NFL football game at Levis Stadium on November 26, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

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5. Gerald Hodges, Linebacker

Who’s up for a little reunion?

As fans may remember, Gerald Hodges was himself a 49er for two seasons after being traded by the Minnesota Vikings. He’s best remembered for being a serviceable replacement for former 49er Michael Wilhoite, performing well in a defense that had few bright spots in it at the time.

However, subsequent seasons with the Buffalo Bills and New Orleans Saints have not been as productive.

In the wake of the Reuben Foster saga where, at worst, he’ll be released and, at best, probably will serve a lengthy suspension, some depth is desperately needed at linebacker.

It’s not the same defense he looks promising in before, but Hodges has proven himself a safe hand being thrown into the deep end once before. And with his inability to stick with the Bills or Saints, he can be picked up as very cheap but very dependable depth at a position filled with uncertainty for next season.