5 free-agent 49ers who can now be re-signed on cheaper deals
By Peter Panacy
49ers free-agent No. 4: Cornerback Dontae Johnson
You knew this was coming, right?
San Francisco seemingly has an annual tradition of signing, releasing, then re-signing veteran defensive back Dontae Johnson.
Why should 2022 be any different?
Granted, the 30-year-old Johnson is little more than a depth piece at this stage of his career, and he wouldn’t be tasked with much more than providing some modest insurance at a position that still has some notable question marks even after Charvarius Ward was acquired.
That said, the 49ers have appreciated Johnson’s versatility and ability to play both boundary positions and over the slot, meaning he’d be a workable piece within the secondary to at least compete for a roster spot this upcoming season.
It would also take pressure off the Niners from having to acquire yet more cornerbacks, either in free agency or the draft.
Johnson would likely re-sign on a cheap deal anyway, but his lack of attention on the open market thus far essentially guarantees it.