In a surprising move, the San Francisco 49ers have announced the signing of linebacker Stone Blanton, an undrafted free agent (UDFA) from Mississippi State, to a three-year contract. This decision has garnered significant attention from fans and analysts alike, as Blanton, despite an impressive college career, went unselected in the 2025 NFL Draft. However, with his high-energy playing style and adaptability, he is expected to make an impact in the 49ers’ roster, particularly on special teams.
Stone Blanton’s Journey
Stone Blanton, 22 years old, standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 227 pounds, had a notable college career. He began at the University of South Carolina, where he played for two seasons (2022-2023) before transferring to Mississippi State for his final season in 2024. Over 36 college games, with 24 starts, Blanton made his mark with:
184 tackles
6 tackles for loss
1.5 sacks
3 forced fumbles
1 fumble recovery
1 interception
7 pass deflections
In particular, during the 2024 season at Mississippi State, Blanton exploded with 125 tackles, including 3.5 tackles for loss and 2 forced fumbles. He recorded double-digit tackles in seven games, with a standout performance of 18 tackles against Missouri. These numbers highlight Blanton’s ability to read plays and be in the right position to stop opponents.
Despite his impressive stats, Blanton went undrafted in the NFL Draft. According to NFL.com analyst Lance Zierlein, Blanton is an “inside linebacker with great instincts but limited athleticism.” This may explain why he was overlooked during the draft. However, for the 49ers, a team known for developing undrafted players like Azeez Al-Shaair and Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles, Blanton represents a potential diamond in the rough.
Why the 49ers Are Betting on Blanton
Signing Blanton is not just about adding depth to the linebacker corps but also reflects the strategic vision of head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch. After losing key linebacker Dre Greenlaw, who signed with the Denver Broncos, the 49ers are in need of new faces to fill the void. Currently, the team’s linebacker group includes Fred Warner, rookie Nick Martin, and others like Dee Winters, Luke Gifford, Tatum Bethune, Jalen Graham, and Curtis Robinson. With such a crowded depth chart, Blanton’s chances of earning a starting role are slim, but he could shine in a special teams role.
The 49ers’ special teams unit has struggled in recent seasons, and Blanton, with his quickness and hard-hitting tackling ability, is seen as a fitting piece to improve this area. Qualities like tenacity and the ability to make big plays in critical situations could help him earn the trust of the coaching staff.
Moreover, Blanton is viewed as a long-term development project. At 22, he has ample time to refine his skills and adjust to the NFL’s pace. The three-year contract signals the 49ers’ belief in his potential, not only as a backup but possibly as a key contributor in the future.
Opportunities and Challenges Ahead
While Blanton’s signing is a surprise, it comes with challenges. With a stacked linebacker room, he will face fierce competition to earn playing time. He must prove his worth, particularly in preseason games and on the practice field. His ability to contribute on special teams will be crucial to securing a spot on the 53-man roster.
However, the 49ers’ history shows they can turn undrafted players into significant contributors. Azeez Al-Shaair, another UDFA, became a reliable linebacker before moving to the Houston Texans. Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles is another example of a UDFA carving out a solid career in San Francisco. If Blanton can seize his opportunities and learn from veterans like Fred Warner, he could follow in their footsteps.
Conclusion
The San Francisco 49ers’ decision to sign Stone Blanton is a bold yet calculated move. Though undrafted, Blanton brings passion, impressive tackling ability, and long-term potential. Under the guidance of Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch, he has a chance to prove that going undrafted is merely a starting point, not a definition of his career. 49ers fans will undoubtedly follow Blanton’s journey, hoping he becomes a pleasant surprise in the 2025 season.