The San Francisco 49ers boasted the NFL's worst pass rush a year ago, and unfortunately, defensive end Sam Okuayinonu was part of the reason why.
This isn't to say Okuayinonu is a bad player. Rather, it's just the fact he was forced into a role he's not equipped to handle. Amid the Niners' slew of major injuries, notably ACL tears suffered by starting ends Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams, Okuayinonu went from a rotational rusher into a full-time starter, starting a career-high 12 games in his second season in the Bay Area.
That's not the kind of role in which Okuayinonu would thrive.
Thankfully, San Francisco is anticipating changes that should put the 28 year old back into a niche role that could finally lead to him having a substantial breakout, and it wouldn't be a shock to see Okuayinonu post career-best numbers in this niche.
After all, the 49ers could stand for some exceptional production from their B-list pass-rushers, of which Okuayinonu is part.
49ers would love to see Sam Okuayinonu break out in 2026
There should be plenty of motivation for the defensive end. He signed a $2.3 million contract during the offseason, $1.3 million of which is guaranteed, yet he'll be a free agent in 2027. At his age, and given the fact he hasn't exactly solidified his name as a quality rusher on the open market, putting up career-bests has to be a goal here.
Plus, Okuayinonu should enjoy the benefit of having some fresh faces (both returning and new) along the Niners D-line.
Bosa is expected back, as is Williams a little later. Plus, the addition of rookie Romello Height via last April's draft should take pressure off Okuayinonu from being the chief situational rusher.
Tack on an interior difference maker, defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa, and there's every reason to believe San Francisco's pass rush will be rejuvinated over the course of 2026, likely resulting in Okuayinonu registering more than the three sacks posted in each of the last two seasons.
Fans may recall how backup defensive end Ronald Blair was a hidden gem-type pass-rusher for the 49ers, too frequently overlooked by being behind other big names like Bosa, DeForest Buckner and Arik Armstead. Yet Blair's presence as a situation player was vital, particularly in 2019 when he recorded three sacks in nine games before suffering a season-ending ACL tear.
As was the case with Blair, the Niners don't need Okuayinonu to headline the pass rush. Not even close.
But if he can get in the range of five sacks on the year in a situational role, it'd be a major boost for a pass rush that needs it.
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