49ers Shock NFL by Signing Former Packers OL

The San Francisco 49ers sent shockwaves through the NFL free agency market by officially signing former Green Bay Packers offensive lineman Andre Dillard to a one-year contract on Friday, May 9, 2025. This move not only bolsters the 49ers’ offensive line but also marks the departure of one of the final notable free agents from the Packers’ roster this offseason.

Andre Dillard’s Journey

Andre Dillard, 29, was a first-round pick (22nd overall) by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2019 NFL Draft. Standing at 6’5” and weighing 315 pounds, Dillard was expected to become a cornerstone at left tackle. However, his tenure with the Eagles fell short of expectations as he lost the starting job to Jordan Mailata, a surprising seventh-round pick, in 2021. After his rookie contract ended, Dillard signed a three-year, $29 million deal with the Tennessee Titans, but a disappointing 2023 season (allowing 12 sacks and 42 pressures, per Pro Football Focus) led to his release.

In 2024, Dillard joined the Green Bay Packers as a backup. He appeared in 10 games, playing just 13 offensive snaps and 50 special teams snaps, failing to make a significant impact. With the Packers drafting two rookie offensive tackles in the 2025 NFL Draft—Anthony Belton (Round 2, NC State) and John Williams (Round 7, Cincinnati)—the team opted not to retain Dillard for the upcoming season.

49ers Seek Reinforcement

The 49ers’ signing of Dillard is part of a strategy to add depth to their offensive line, particularly at the swing tackle position. The team still boasts All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams and reliable right tackle Colton McKivitz for 2025, but the departure of guard Aaron Banks (to the Packers) and swing tackle Jaylon Moore (to the Chiefs) prompted head coach Kyle Shanahan and GM John Lynch to act. On the same day, the 49ers also signed former Titans tackle Nicholas Petit-Frere to a one-year deal, intensifying competition for the backup tackle role.

According to posts on X, the 49ers’ current swing tackle candidates include D.J. Humphries, Andre Dillard, Spencer Burford, Nicholas Petit-Frere, and Austen Pleasants. The presence of two former first-round picks (Dillard and Humphries) in this group underscores San Francisco’s ambition to build a versatile and experienced offensive line. Some analysts suggest that Dillard, with his ideal frame and past pedigree, could be a worthwhile gamble if he recaptures the form that once made him a top draft choice.

Impact on Packers and 49ers

For the Green Bay Packers, Dillard’s departure is part of a significant roster overhaul in the 2025 free agency period. According to Acme Packing Company, Dillard is the eighth free agent to leave the team this offseason, following names like Eric Stokes, TJ Slaton, Corey Ballentine, A.J. Dillon, Josh Myers, and Robert Rochell. The Packers have chosen to focus on young talent from the draft, with Belton and Williams expected to play key roles in the future.

Meanwhile, the 49ers are working to rebuild after a disappointing 2024 season (6 wins, compared to 12+ wins in the prior two seasons). Signing Dillard and Petit-Frere, alongside cornerback Dallis Flowers, reflects their aggressive approach to addressing gaps in both the offensive and defensive units. With a 2025 matchup between the 49ers and Titans scheduled in San Francisco (date to be announced next week), Dillard could face his former Titans team—an opportunity to prove his worth.

Conclusion

The San Francisco 49ers’ signing of Andre Dillard is a surprising yet calculated move to enhance depth and competition in their offensive line. For Dillard, this is a chance to revive a once-promising career. Meanwhile, the Green Bay Packers are banking on their young draft picks, parting ways with a former first-round talent to focus on the future. With these changes, both teams are gearing up for a 2025 season full of challenges and opportunities.