4 big-name free agents 49ers can still sign to round out 2022 roster

With the NFL Draft less than two weeks away, the 49ers could still look to NFL free agency to help shape their roster. Here are some viable options.

It’s been said for years: You build your team through the draft.

However, there’s something to be said about NFL free agency.

Think about it. Every NFL team has at least one player you wish you could steal. It’s that highly coveted franchise player that makes your team better just by adding his name to the depth chart.

But if you’re a general manager, you have to be careful. You have to take a step back and ask the tough questions: Why are they available? Were they not a good fit for their previous team, or are they looking for a team that covets them enough to offer the big money?

They could be the best player available, and if they don’t fit your scheme, in time, it could end up becoming the worst free-agent signing in the history of the franchise. And nobody wants that. Depending on the contract, it could end up being a low-risk, high-reward signing.

Every team has a three- or four-year window of opportunity to go the distance. If the San Francisco 49ers can unload quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo‘s contract of $25.5 million, while their next starter is on a rookie deal, they must pull the trigger.

Here are four big names who could be worth the risk.

49ers big-name free-agent target No. 4: Safety Tyrann Mathieu

What else can be said about the “Honey Badger,” veteran safety Tyrann Mathieu, that hasn’t already been said? He’s a game-changer. When he’s on the field, one of two things happen: He makes a big play, or the offense completely stays away from that side of the field.

So if he’s that great, why is he about to sign with his third team in five years?

The answer is simple.

Mathieu is such an impact player, that if he was signed to long-term deal, the contract would be obscene. The Arizona Cardinals once benefited from a rookie contract and a fifth-year option that they were smart enough to exercise on him.

In nine years, Mathieu has started 120 games, intercepted the ball 26 times, ran three back for touchdowns and sacked the opposing quarterback 10 times. His productivity is off the charts, and every secondary is better with him on the field.

Now, picture him paired with free safety Jimmie Ward.

Three Pro Bowls, three All-Pros, Mathieu can cover, play against the run and get after the quarterback.

To put in plainly, he simply does it all and currently he’s coveted by everyone that needs a safety.