The San Francisco 49ers haven’t added many new players in free agency; instead, they have concentrated on
returning players during this quiet offseason. They already have a great roster, and players like safety Talanoa
Hufanga are returning to the team, which contributes to part of that.
For this reason, the team hosted a visit from Julian Blackmon of the Indianapolis Colts but did not close a contract.
David Lombardi of The Athletic reports that Hufanga will return at some point during training camp, indicating that
San Francisco is merely searching for a backup.
On March 26, Lombardi said on X, “Talanoa Hufanga is expected to return from the ACL’sometime in training
camp,’ according to Kyle Shanahan, who also sounded optimistic about Hufanga’s ability to return to 100% of his old
self.” “While general depth is Priority No. 1 with Hufanga returning from injury, SF would still like to add a safety,
but they told recent visitor Julian Blackmon that a new addition wouldn’t necessarily be guaranteed a starting spot.”
In 2022, Hufanga was a revelation for San Francisco; however, his 2023 campaign was ruined by an ACL tear. The
49ers are obviously looking for a backup, despite rumors that they might add a starter-level option.
Hufanga Becomes Focal Point of Defense:
The 49ers had excellent alternatives in their front seven with players like defensive end Nick Bosa and linebacker
Fred Warner. However, Hufanga’s selection in the fifth round of the 2021 draft would add a top-tier safety to the
defense’s “spine.”
Hufanga burst onto the national stage in 2022 following a promising season in a supporting role in 2021. The former
USC Trojan recorded 9 passes defended, 2 sacks, and 4 interceptions, according to PFR.
Hufanga had a lot of hype going into the 2023 season after being selected as a first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowler.
Hufanga had previously recorded three interceptions in 10 games.
However, an ACL tear in Week 11 put an early stop to his season. It also raised concerns about his availability for the
2024 season. Thankfully for the 49ers, it seems the 24-year-old is recovering according to plan.
Even if Julian Blackmon and San Francisco were obviously at odds, a solution might still be reached. Despite having
just finished his best pro season, Blackmon is still without a contract.
After his season with four interceptions, the 25-year-old’s skills are undoubtedly useful to some teams. But Blackmon
is in a limbo as the draft approaches and the first waves of free agency are behind teams.
In the event that he turns out to be the odd man out, Blackmon’s ability may fetch the 49ers ridiculous value. The
best-case scenario would be for him to play for a talented team like the 49ers if he isn’t guaranteed a starting position
elsewhere.
Hufanga might be getting better. However, ACL tears regrettably portend further injuries in the future. If Hufanga’s
situation worsens, Blackmon might still receive his first opportunity.
At this time, it’s probably a long shot. But there are many reasons to keep an eye on Blackmon’s free agency drama
going ahead, especially if San Francisco is looking for a safety.
