With free agency approaching in less than a month, Cameron believes strengthening the defensive backfield will be a priority, especially with cornerback Charvarius Ward likely to depart.
Cameron named New York Jets cornerback D.J. Reed, who would reunite with his former head coach, Robert Saleh, now the 49ers' defensive coordinator, and the team that selected him in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, as an ideal addition.
"Highlighted in PFF's NFL free agency signings we want to see, Reed and the 49ers should have a mutual interest in reaching a deal to reunite the cornerback with his former defensive play caller in New York," Cameron wrote. "Robert Saleh highly values outside cornerbacks who can stand up in man coverage in his scheme, something Reed has excelled at, earning an 83.1 man coverage grade in their time together."
Looking ahead to April's draft, Cameron sees the 49ers' No. 11 overall pick as an opportunity to reinforce the offensive trenches. He views LSU offensive tackle Will Campbell as an ideal selection to bolster an often-overlooked offensive line.
"The 49ers and Brock Purdy are reportedly working on a massive extension, so moving to find more blocking for both him and Christian McCaffrey is a priority," Cameron commented. "With Aaron Banks' contract expiring and Trent Williams entering his age-37 season while coming off an injury, Campbell — or another highly touted tackle prospect — would address an immediate need on the interior and provide a long-term solution at tackle."
With Purdy nearing a lucrative contract extension, it makes sense for the 49ers to invest in protecting their franchise quarterback while preparing for Williams' eventual retirement. Adding Reed and Campbell would address two of San Francisco's most significant needs, strengthening both sides of the ball.
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
PFF reveals 49ers' biggest steal and reach in the 2025 NFL Draft
Pro Football Focus (PFF) contributor Mark Chichester evaluated every team's 2025 NFL Draft class to identify each franchise's biggest steal and biggest reach. To accomplish this, he compared each player's draft position to their ranking on PFF's big board, highlighting... -
Being drafted by the 49ers is a dream come true for Marques Sigle
New San Francisco 49ers safety Marques Sigle spoke with reporters virtually shortly after being selected in the fifth round of the NFL Draft. He shared that it has always been a dream to join the 49ers because of his father, a lifelong fan of the team. "This is my dad's... -
Lifelong 49ers fan living his dream after being drafted by San Francisco
Not many San Francisco 49ers fans were familiar with Montana wide receiver Junior Bergen, the seventh-round draft pick the team hopes will contribute as a returner on special teams. However, Bergen knows all about the Niners, as he's been a lifelong fan, a fact he shared during... -
PFF identifies favorite 49ers pick from latest draft class
While Pro Football Focus (PFF) analyst Trevor Sikkema wasn't overly impressed with the San Francisco 49ers' latest draft class, one selection did stand out to him. Sikkema named Indiana defensive tackle CJ West as his favorite pick by general manager John Lynch and head coach...