USA Today's Tyler Dragon recently analyzed the best landing spots for the top 10 impending defensive free agents. With free agency just weeks away, the San Francisco 49ers risk losing two key All-Pro defensive backs—safety Talanoa Hufanga and cornerback Charvarius Ward.
Although the 49ers are projected to have approximately $50 million in salary cap space, the team is negotiating a contract extension for quarterback Brock Purdy, which is expected to make him one of the NFL's highest-paid players. As a result, San Francisco is preparing for less cap flexibility than in recent years, which could lead to difficult roster decisions and veteran departures.
Dragon identified the Denver Broncos as a strong fit for Hufanga.
"Injuries have hampered Hufanga the past two seasons," Dragon wrote. "The defensive back has played a combined 17 games in two years while dealing with a torn ACL and other bumps. However, Hufanga is one of the NFL's better safeties when he's on the field. He was a first-team All-Pro in 2022.
"The Broncos ranked in the bottom half of the NFL in pass defense. Defensive Player of the Year cornerback Pat Surtain and Hufanga would be a scary duo in Denver's defensive backfield."
As for Ward, Dragon sees the Detroit Lions as an ideal destination.
"Ward allowed a 61% completion percentage and five touchdowns in 2024," Dragon wrote. "He was a 2023 Pro Bowl and a second-team All-Pro at cornerback.
"The Lions had the 30th-ranked pass defense in the NFL last season, and Detroit cornerback Carlton Davis is slated to hit free agency."
Other notable 49ers impending free agents include linebacker Dre Greenlaw and guard Aaron Banks, meaning the team could be in the market for replacements for several veterans in free agency or the draft.
