Thomas, 24, is entering his fourth NFL season.
"I don't think [potentially not executing the option is] any absolute," general manager John Lynch shared on Thursday, "or it doesn't mean that we don't love Solomon. I think we're incredibly encouraged. Solomon's going to be a big part (of our defense).
"We brought in (Javon) Kinlaw, but everybody who's watched us knows we rotate a lot of players there. We believe in going as hard as they can, and then we'll rotate, kind of like hockey lines. Solomon's going to be a big part of that rotation."
Lynch noted that the 49ers declined the fifth-year option for guard Laken Tomlinson in 2018, and then later signed him to a three-year extension. Something similar could be an option for Thomas, as well.
The 49ers made Thomas the No. 3 overall selection in 2017 after playing college football at Stanford. He registered 21 combined tackles and two sacks through 16 games and three starts with the 49ers in 2019.
Lynch also noted that Thomas is working this offseason to add some weight.
"Last year, he got really light, which helped in his quickness," he said, "but I don't know if he had enough substance, just in terms of weight. So, he's going to come back a little heavier."
Thomas has recorded 93 combined tackles and six sacks through his three NFL seasons. His best statistical season came during his rookie campaign in 2017 when he recorded career highs in tackles (41) and sacks (three).
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
DE Sam Okuayinonu signs one-year exclusive rights contract with 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers announced that defensive end Sam Okuayinonu, an exclusive rights free agent, has signed the one-year tender offered to him last month. The San Francisco 49ers today announced that DL Sam Okuayinonu has signed his one-year exclusive rights tendered... -
Pair of 2nd-year 49ers players switch jersey numbers
The San Francisco 49ers' offseason roster changes have allowed two second-year players to update their jersey numbers. Quarterback Tanner Mordecai, currently the team's third quarterback behind Brock Purdy and Mac Jones, has switched from No. 4 to No. 14. San Francisco 49ers... -
Lance Zierlein mock draft: 49ers upgrade O-line with three-year starter
NFL analyst Lance Zierlein has released his third mock draft of the year for NFL.com, projecting the San Francisco 49ers to address what many see as one of their biggest needs heading into the 2025 season—the offensive line. With the draft just weeks away, the 49ers have... -
Report: 49ers outbid Broncos for Dre Greenlaw, but the linebacker sought 'fresh start'
Several factors contributed to Dre Greenlaw's departure from the San Francisco 49ers this offseason. Money played a significant role, as the linebacker signed a three-year, $31.5 million deal with the Denver Broncos. Greenlaw's exit is seen as one of the 49ers' most impactful...