The 49ers might not be done making moves.
The San Francisco 49ers are in the midst of a transformative offseason, with their defensive secondary under scrutiny as they aim to bolster their roster for the 2025 NFL season. One name that has surfaced as a potential target is free-agent cornerback Asante Samuel Jr., a 25-year-old former second-round pick by the Los Angeles Chargers. But will the 49ers sign him? Let’s explore the factors at play, including Samuel’s fit, the team’s needs, and the challenges surrounding his free agency.
Why Asante Samuel Jr. Makes Sense for the 49ers
The 49ers’ cornerback group is currently viewed as a weak spot, particularly after losing key players like Charvarius Ward, Isaac Yiadom, and Rock Ya-Sin. NFL.com columnist Jeffri Chadiha has highlighted Samuel as an ideal free-agent fit for San Francisco, citing two primary reasons: affordability and team need. With the draft already concluded, Samuel is likely available at a cost-effective price, potentially on a one-year “prove-it” deal, which aligns with the 49ers’ strategy of managing their salary cap while addressing roster gaps.
Samuel’s on-field credentials further support his case. In his first three seasons with the Chargers (2021–2023), he recorded six interceptions and 35 pass deflections, showcasing his ball-hawking ability and coverage skills. In 2023, he earned a 75.6 coverage grade and a 73.9 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, ranking among the top cornerbacks in the league. His youth and proven production make him an attractive option for a 49ers defense looking to get younger and more dynamic.
Additionally, Samuel’s skill set aligns well with the defensive scheme under head coach Kyle Shanahan and defensive coordinator Robert Saleh. His quickness, instincts, and ability to play both boundary and slot roles could provide the versatility San Francisco needs to shore up its secondary. ESPN’s Matt Bowen has noted that Samuel’s traits match the requirements of Saleh’s system, making him a natural fit.
The Case Against Signing Samuel
Despite the optimism, there are significant hurdles that could prevent the 49ers from signing Samuel. The most prominent concern is his injury history. In 2024, Samuel played only four games due to a shoulder/neck injury, which landed him on injured reserve. This injury, described as a lifelong issue exacerbated by contact, has raised red flags across the league. NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo has suggested that medical concerns are the primary reason Samuel remains unsigned, despite his talent.
These health concerns have cooled Samuel’s market, with teams like the Minnesota Vikings reportedly passing on him due to questions about his durability. For the 49ers, who are already navigating a roster with injury-prone players, adding another potential liability could be a risky move. The team may prefer to invest in a draft pick or a veteran with a cleaner bill of health.
Another factor is competition from other teams. While the 49ers have been linked to Samuel, so have the Buffalo Bills, Los Angeles Rams, Arizona Cardinals, Miami Dolphins, and others. The widespread interest could drive up his price or lead him to a team offering a more prominent role. For instance, the Cardinals, with ample cap space, have been projected as a strong landing spot due to their need for cornerback help and patience for a developing player.
The 49ers’ Alternatives
The 49ers have other options to address their cornerback needs. During the 2025 NFL Draft, they were expected by some analysts to select a cornerback early, with names like Michigan’s Will Johnson frequently mocked to San Francisco. While they didn’t draft a cornerback, they could still target younger talent on the roster or explore other free agents. The team’s current depth includes players like Deommodore Lenoir, but the group lacks the star power and consistency needed for a Super Bowl contender.
Additionally, the 49ers’ recent roster moves suggest a focus on balancing offensive and defensive priorities. Trading Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders and extending George Kittle indicate a strategic reshuffling, but the secondary remains a pressing concern. Signing Samuel could be a low-risk, high-reward move, but only if the medical evaluations are favorable.
What’s the Likelihood?
As of May 8, 2025, the 49ers’ interest in Samuel is well-documented, with multiple sources, including ESPN and NFL.com, naming them as a top landing spot. Posts on X also reflect ongoing speculation, with fans and analysts alike discussing Samuel’s potential fit. However, the lack of a confirmed deal suggests that medical concerns and market dynamics are delaying a resolution.
Given the 49ers’ need for a cost-effective, scheme-fit cornerback, Samuel remains a strong candidate. A one-year deal could allow him to rebuild his value while providing San Francisco with a talented player at a position of need. However, the team’s hesitation—likely due to his injury history—means the signing is far from guaranteed. If the 49ers’ medical staff clears Samuel, and his asking price remains reasonable, the odds of a deal increase significantly.
Conclusion
The San Francisco 49ers are at a crossroads with their secondary, and Asante Samuel Jr. represents a tantalizing yet uncertain option. His youth, production, and scheme fit make him an appealing target, but his injury concerns and competition from other teams complicate the picture. While the 49ers are a logical landing spot, the decision will likely hinge on medical evaluations and financial considerations. For now, fans can only wait and see if Samuel becomes the next piece in San Francisco’s defensive puzzle.