49ers Defensive Depth: An In-Depth Look
The San Francisco 49ers made significant moves during the 2023 and 2024 seasons, both in terms of drafting and signing undrafted free agents. Here’s a detailed look at some of the notable additions to their defensive roster.
Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles: Consistent and Versatile
Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles, standing at 6 feet 2 inches and weighing 223 pounds, initially joined the team as an undrafted free agent in 2019. Over his five-year career with the 49ers (2020-24), Flannigan-Fowles has contributed significantly, appearing in 73 games (seven starts). He has accumulated 59 tackles, 1.0 sack, three passes defensed, one interception, and 37 special teams tackles. In the postseason, he has made nine appearances, racking up five tackles, one pass defensed, one forced fumble, and seven special teams tackles. In 2024 alone, Flannigan-Fowles appeared in 12 games (three starts), registering 11 tackles, two passes defensed, one interception, and six special teams tackles. His consistency and versatility make him a valuable asset to the team.
Evan Anderson: A Rookie to Watch
Evan Anderson, at 6 feet 3 inches and 326 pounds, signed with the 49ers as an undrafted free agent and made his NFL debut in 2024. He appeared in 12 games (one start) and demonstrated his potential with 24 tackles, 1.0 sack, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery. Anderson’s early career trajectory suggests he could become a key contributor to the 49ers’ defensive line.
Alex Barrett: Experience Gained Through Practice
Alex Barrett, standing at 6 feet 2 inches and weighing 250 pounds, has had a journeyman career in the NFL. Originally entering the league with the Detroit Lions in 2017, he also played for the Oakland Raiders before joining the 49ers practice squad in 2019. Over his three-year career (2017-2024), he has appeared in 12 games, registering seven tackles. In 2024, much of Barrett’s season was spent on the practice squad, but he appeared in three games, adding one tackle and clinching his first special teams tackle. His experience and dedication could prove beneficial for the 49ers in the future.
Jalen Graham: A Player with Resilience
Jalen Graham, at 6 feet 3 inches and 220 pounds, was drafted by the 49ers in the seventh round (255th overall) of the 2023 NFL Draft. Despite initial releases, Graham managed to secure his role with the team, appearing in 12 games over his two-year career (2023-2024). In 2024, he made eight appearances, contributing six tackles and added two special teams tackles. His ability to stay resilient and find opportunities within the team’s roster is noteworthy.
Sam Okuayinonu: Emerging as a Defensive Force
Sam Okuayinonu, a 6 feet 1 inch, 269-pound defensive player, began his NFL career with the Tennessee Titans in 2022 before signing with the 49ers in 2024. Over his two-year career (2022-2024), he has shown improvement, appearing in 22 games (three starts) with 46 tackles, 3.5 sacks, one pass defensed, and one forced fumble. In 2024 alone, he registered career-highs with 35 tackles, 3.0 sacks, one pass defensed, and one forced fumble, cementing his role within the 49ers’ defense.
Austen Pleasants: A Traveling Professional
Austen Pleasants, standing at 6 feet 7 inches and weighing 328 pounds, has had an extensive journey through the NFL practice squad system. Starting with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2020, he has seen time with the Carolina Panthers (2021-22), Los Angeles Chargers (2022-24), Chicago Bears (2023-24), and Arizona Cardinals (2023-24). In 2024, Pleasants spent time on multiple practice squads before finally making three appearances with the 49ers. Despite his extensive practice squad tenure, he demonstrated his ability to contribute when called upon.
Jake Tonges: A Reserve with Potential
Jake Tonges, a 6 feet 4 inch, 240-pound defensive player, originally signed with the Chicago Bears in 2022. After stints with various teams and the practice squad, he secured a Reserve/Future contract with the Chicago Bears in 2023 and then signed with the 49ers in 2024. In his two-year career with the Bears (2023) and 49ers (2024), Tonges appeared in 20 games, contributing two special teams tackles. His experience across multiple teams has honed his skills, making him a valuable reservist.
Brayden Willis: Drafted and Patient
Brayden Willis, at 6 feet 4 inches and 240 pounds, was drafted by the 49ers in the seventh round (247th overall) of the 2023 NFL Draft. Despite being released early in his career, Willis has made consistent appearances as a practice squad player. Over his two-year career (2023-2024), he has appeared in 17 games, securing one tackle and three special teams tackles. He also contributes in the postseason, making three appearances. His resilience and dedication to the practice squad demonstrate potential for future contributions to the team.
Conclusion
The 49ers have built a diverse and resilient defensive roster through a combination of undrafted free agents and strategic drafting. Players like Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles, Evan Anderson, and Sam Okuayinonu have shown great promise and could play significant roles in the team’s success. Meanwhile, experience gained by players such as Alex Barrett and Brayden Willis through time on the practice squad could prove invaluable for future seasons.
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